New class of Special Constables joins TPS

Special Constables play a vital role within a police service, providing essential support to regular officers while strengthening the connection between police and the communities they serve.

On January 8, Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue welcomed 27 new graduates into the Toronto Police Service family, underscoring the importance of their role within the organization.

“Together, we share the same mission which is delivering police services in partnership with our communities to keep Toronto the best and safest place to be,” Pogue said. “Each of you has an essential role to play. Your work helps ensure the entire team operates more efficiently.”

She emphasized that the new graduates are critical to the smooth functioning of both the Service and the city.

“You are essential to keeping our Service and our city running smoothly,” she added. “The Command team, along with the entire Service, will do everything possible to ensure you have what you need to succeed. Each of you brings a wealth of diverse life and professional experiences, cultures and languages that reflect the diversity of our amazing city.”

Pogue also highlighted the importance of wellness and self-care.

“In the coming weeks and months, I encourage you to prioritize your well-being and familiarize yourselves with the wellness resources available through the Service,” she added. “We want you to be happy, healthy and to enjoy a long and fulfilling career with us.”

Silvia Gualtieri, parliamentary assistant to the solicitor general, urged the graduates to approach their duties with integrity.

“Wear your uniform with pride, carry out your duties with honour, and always remember the immense trust that has been placed in you,” she said.

Joseph Maiorano, the province’s deputy inspector of policing, reminded the class that public safety goes beyond a job.

“It is a calling,” he said. “Each of you has answered that calling with dedication, discipline and hard work. Becoming a Special Constable is an achievement that reflects not only your training and skills, but your character.”

Graduate Lindsay McDonnell spent nearly a year in Parking Enforcement before applying to become a Special Constable.

“I was anxious to make the transition because I felt I could make a more meaningful impact in this position,” she said.

Several graduates were recognized for outstanding achievements.

Mohammed Haj Naef earned a 93 per cent academic average, Aiden Kurfurst received the Physical Training Most Improved Award and Kurtis Baldeo was presented with the Toronto Police Military Veterans Association Dress and Deportment Award.

Brandon Fernandes was named class valedictorian and received the Physical Training High Performance Award.

In his valedictory address, he reflected on the responsibility that comes with the role.

“One of the most important lessons we learned is that this job is not about standing above others, but standing beside them,” he said. “As Special Constables, we will encounter people on some of the most difficult days of their lives. In those moments, our presence, our words and our actions will matter. The badge we wear is not just a symbol of authority. It is a symbol of trust, responsibility and service.”

He added that communication and empathy are among the most powerful tools they carry.

“We will face moments that test our judgment, patience and character,” Fernandes said. “In those moments, our greatest strength won’t come from anything on our duty belt, but from our ability to communicate and show empathy. That is how we build trust, overcome challenges and uphold a safe and just society.”

Beyond their formal training, the graduating class also demonstrated a commitment to community service, raising funds for Victim Services Toronto.

This marks the fourth Special Constable graduation since the enactment of the Community Safety and Policing Act, which introduced expanded, provincially mandated training developed by the Ontario Police College under the direction of the Solicitor General’s Office.

Beginning last September, the intensive 16-week program included academic instruction, practical training, dynamic scenario-based exercises and written and demonstrated Use of Force examinations.

Following graduation, the new Special Constables will complete six months of field training, rotating through District Special Constable, Court Officer and Divisional Booking roles.

Booking Officers are responsible for processing individuals in custody, ensuring prisoner safety and well-being, and managing individuals experiencing emotional crisis or physical distress.

Court Officers provide courthouse security and transport prisoners, while District Special Constables support frontline operations by handling duties such as guarding crime scenes and canvassing for information.

Toronto Police Service Board Executive Director Louis Tsilivis said the graduating class reflects the evolution of the Special Constable role.

“With Court Officers, Divisional Booking Officers and District Special Constables now unified into one role, this class represents a modernized approach to policing,” he said. “This evolution creates greater flexibility in deployment, enhances operational effectiveness, and streamlines processes. Through this innovative model and the intensive training you have completed. You are now equipped to serve the people of Toronto with even greater skill, understanding and professionalism.”