The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service’s (SSMPS) "dynamic patrol" initiative has returned to the downtown core.
Officers, on a volunteer overtime basis, have been back downtown since June 16, the police service said this week.
Members have focused their time on enhancing relationships with community members and businesses downtown and will be deployed to strategic locations as necessary, the SSMPS said in a news release.
“Our goal is to have an increased presence in the downtown throughout the summer,” said Inspector of Patrol Services Derek Dewar.
“Dynamic patrols are proven to enhance public safety through strategic bicycle, foot, and general patrols. We are committed to continuing the program and thank our members for signing up to provide this crucial service to our community.”
From June 16 to 29, 10 different officers spent 48 hours in the downtown core, according to the SSMPS. During that time officers responded to 16 incidents, made three arrests, issued 12 provincial offence notices, spent 11 hours walking and interacting with community members downtown, and attended four public events.
While working, dynamic patrol members provide enforcement which includes laying appropriate provincial offences notices, Highway Traffic Act fines, and criminal charges when warranted, police said.
Police noted the dynamic patrols return to the downtown area after a pilot project with the Algoma District School Board (ADSB) and the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board (HSCDSB).
Throughout the pilot, the police service said officers conducted patrols and had positive interactions with students and staff at ADSB and HSCDSB high schools. Five different officers signed up for the pilot project, working seven shifts in local schools, spending 36 hours interacting with students and staff in the school system.
“The pilot project allowed our members to reinforce the strong relationships we have with the local school boards,” said Deputy Chief Robert MacLachlan. “The pilot demonstrates the need for ongoing positive interactions with students. There will be ongoing conversation to look for opportunities to improve our work with youth and educators to keep our schools and community safe.”
The SSMPS, ADSB, and HSCDSB continue to collaborate on ways to enhance this partnership, police said.