Ontario Protecting Durham Region Against Gun and Gang Violence
Funding for new video surveillance equipment and technology will help police fight crime
DURHAM — The Ontario government is investing $200,000 to the Durham Regional Police Service expand its video surveillance program and better protect the community against gun and gang violence.
The funding is being delivered through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program and can be used to replace outdated equipment, expand or enhance current technology and install new or additional CCTV surveillance cameras in areas where gun and gang violence, illegal drug activity and human trafficking are prevalent.
“Our frontline police, the individuals we depend on to apprehend criminals, emphasize that CCTV technology is an effective tool for gaining a critical advantage over criminal organizations,” said Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby and Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier. “These investments will improve the Durham Region Police Service’s ability to detect and prevent crime in Durham Region.”
The Durham Regional Police Service is one of 24 police services across the province receiving funding with more than $2.8 million being allocated through the 2023-24 CCTV Grant program.
“Our government is taking action to keep Ontarians safe,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “CCTV surveillance systems are an important part of local police work to detect, prevent, and deter criminal activity. The systems also enhance police efforts to investigate crimes and provide evidence necessary to lay charges.”
“This funding will empower law enforcement to bolster existing technology,” said Peter, Bethlenfalvy, MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge. “Together with the Durham Regional Police Service, we stand resolute in our fight against gun and gang violence, illegal drug activity, and human trafficking, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all in Ontario.”
“When it comes to preventing and detecting crime, CCTV surveillance is an essential tool in law enforcement’s toolkit,” said Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham. “This significant investment from the province will allow the Durham Regional Police Service to upgrade and expand its video surveillance capabilities, helping keep the local community safe from guns, gangs, and violence.”
QUOTES
“We value the continued support and investments in the CCTV program. We have already seen the benefit of these cameras as both a deterrent and a crucial investigative tool in solving crime and addressing gun and gang violence.”
Chief Peter Moreira, Durham Regional Police Service
QUICK FACTS
- The CCTV Grant was first introduced in 2020. Since that time, the Ontario government has allocated approximately $7.4 million in funding for surveillance systems to police services across the province.
- The grant funding covers 50 per cent of project costs up to a maximum of $200,000 for each successful project.
- The Ontario government is investing $163 million to immediately strengthen the province’s efforts to fight crime including combatting bail non-compliance and auto thefts.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES