City launches overnight security patrol

News Release

This week, the City launched a temporary, overnight security patrol, as a swift and direct action in response to community feedback gathered through the recent Community Safety Business Forum and accompanying online engagement.

“By increasing visible overnight presence in areas of concern, the initiative intends to disrupt ongoing patterns of crime and mischief, helping deter further incidents and improve the public’s sense of safety,” said Darren Caul, Community Safety Director. “It also supports local businesses during what many have told us is a challenging period, by helping stabilize areas that are repeatedly impacted.”

The overnight security patrol crew will work in collaboration with RCMP and Bylaw Services to identify and address areas of concern. This will involve patrolling commercial areas throughout the city experiencing higher overnight activity and reporting crime in progress to RCMP. The patrollers will also engage with people experiencing homelessness and encourage them to access shelter or move to the City’s designated outdoor sheltering site.

Data is continuously being collected and assessed to inform future areas of focus for RCMP, Bylaw Services and now the overnight security patrol team. This initiative will be funded through the City’s Public Safety Levy.

Patrol schedules, hours, and frequency will not be made publicly available, as doing so could impact program efficacy.