Celebrating Police Week in Community

Each May, Police Week shines a spotlight on the work, sacrifices and community partnerships that help keep neighbourhoods across Canada safe and connected.

“It is a time for us to connect with the community and help people better understand the services we provide,” said Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw at this year’s launch on May 9 at Jimmie Simpson Park in the city’s east end. “Most people think of policing as making arrests or responding when someone calls 9-1-1, and that is certainly part of what we do. But our work goes far beyond that.”

He noted that the Service’s role extends well beyond emergency response and enforcement.

From crime prevention and locating missing persons to preparing behind the scenes for major events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Toronto Police officers and civilian members are also focused on keeping traffic moving, improving road safety and supporting the overall well-being of communities across the city.

Demkiw also said Police Week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of a visible police presence in neighbourhoods across the city.

“Our cops count,” he said. “Over the past few years, we have made a deliberate effort to expand our Neighbourhood Community Officer program,” he said. “This is part of our vision for a hyper-local approach to policing. NCOs often know people on a first-name basis and are able to connect community members with the resources they need. They can also help resolve issues before they escalate into violence.”

Because of the Toronto Police Service Board and the City’s investment in a multi-year hiring plan, the Service has hired more police officers and expanded the NCO program. There are now NCOs serving 60 neighbourhoods across the city, as well as officers dedicated to the Toronto Transit Commission’s Yonge subway line.

Demkiw said that protecting Toronto is a shared responsibility involving police, community organizations and residents alike.

“When we look at community safety indicators so far this year, the homicide rate is the lowest it has been in years, and other indicators continue to trend downward,” he said. “Through the spring and summer, we will continue to be laser-focused on protecting this city so that people are and feel safe.”

Mayor Olivia Chow presented a plaque to Demkiw proclaiming the week as Police Week in Toronto.

“We are so grateful for the officers who serve and who put themselves in harm’s way,” she said. “Their acts of service, bravery and compassion inspire us to care more for each other. This week, we celebrate that service and recommit to the partnership that makes it possible. To serve one’s city and to serve each other is among the highest callings. The City of Toronto is proud to acknowledge the hard work of the Toronto Police Service in building a safer and more caring city together.”

As Police Week highlights the people and partnerships behind public safety, Toronto Police Association president Clayton Campbell said cooperation and mutual respect remain essential to effective policing and stronger communities.

“Whether you are on the frontlines investigating the most serious and violent crimes in society or advocating for our fellow members, we all share a common truth,” he said. “Our jobs are easier when we work together. Police Week is not just an opportunity to showcase the hardworking professionals in police services throughout the country, but it is also an opportunity to recognize and thank those who have stepped up to work with and support us, even in the most challenging times. “

Police Week runs from May 10-16, and this year’s theme is “Protecting Ontario Through Service.”

“This year’s theme is powerful,” said Joe Couto, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Research and Corporate Communications for the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police. “I don’t have to tell you how challenging the times we live in are. We need our police officers, Auxiliary members and Special Constables to continue doing the work they do. As police professionals, we understand the deep concerns many families and individuals in communities have about safety and well-being. Through the incredible dedication of these officers, we continue to earn the trust of communities.”

The Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) also plays an important role in strengthening trust, fostering dialogue and building meaningful partnerships between the Toronto Police Service and the diverse communities it serves.

As a CPLC member for more than 30 years and co-chair of the 55 Division committee, Peter Themeliopoulos has seen first-hand what can happen when people come together with the shared goal of building safer, stronger and more connected neighbourhoods.

“At 55 Division, we are fortunate to have officers, civilian members, volunteers and community partners who genuinely care about people, not just during emergencies or difficult moments, but every single day through mentorship, outreach, youth engagement and simply showing up for the community,” he said.

“It is about connection and strengthening the relationship between our police service and the community we proudly serve together. In a city as large and diverse as Toronto, those relationships matter more than ever.”

The event was organized by the Community Partnerships & Engagement Unit, led by Superintendent Anthony Paoletta, who served as master of ceremonies, in partnership with Superintendent Dave Correa and his team at 55 Division.