Cobourg’s new police chief says his department is taking a more focused approach to repeat offenders and persistent public disorder, with police and municipal law enforcement working together to address recurring community concerns.
Chris Leather announced the multi-phased initiative Tuesday, saying residents should be able to use downtown streets, parks and other public spaces without repeatedly encountering intimidation, victimization or unlawful behaviour.
“Compassion does not mean ignoring disorder or harmful behaviour in public spaces,” Leather said. “Support for people experiencing complex challenges cannot come at the expense of the broader community’s safety, well-being or confidence in shared public spaces.”
The first phase will focus on targeted enforcement and restoring order, while still connecting vulnerable people with appropriate supports, he said.
Responses will vary depending on the circumstances and may include referrals to services, municipal enforcement, trespass measures, investigations, arrests or charges where warranted.
Police have also increased proactive patrols, property checks, bail compliance checks and other targeted enforcement efforts. Since July, those initiatives have resulted in 43 arrests and 11 charges or provincial offence notices under the Liquor Licence and Control Act.
Brent Larmer, Cobourg’s clerk and director of legislative services, said municipal law enforcement is taking a zero-tolerance approach to repeated nuisance behaviour in parks and open spaces.
Officers are prioritizing calls based on reported nuisance activity, with the goal of directing resources to areas where residents say they are needed most.
Leather said the first phase is expected to continue through late fall and early winter, when results will be assessed and discussions held with community partners.
He said the approach will allow him, as a relatively new chief, to continue meeting with stakeholders and encourage greater leadership from community organizations and services.
“It is time that we restore order,” Leather said, adding officers need the information and intelligence required to make informed decisions when dealing with recurring problems in public spaces.
(Richard Evans)
