Police Response to Oct. 7 Anniversary
Torontonians will notice an increased police presence as the one-year anniversary of attacks on Israel nears.
“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to deeply affect communities across our city, and we know that the coming days and weeks will be a difficult time for many. Emotions are understandably running high, and we recognize this is a moment of reflection and pain for many people,” Demkiw said. “My role, and the role of the Toronto Police Service, is to keep people safe.”
Since October 7, Toronto Police officers have managed more than 1,500 demonstrations across Toronto and conducted thousands of proactive visits to schools, places of worship, and community centres to ensure the safety and security of our residents.
“The Toronto Police Service will be a visible and reassuring presence for as long as necessary,” Demkiw said, noting that officers will be patrolling with static roof lights to show their presence.
Four mobile command posts will be stationed at:
- Bathurst/Glencairn
- Bathurst/Sheppard
- Bathurst/Finch
- Unit rotating through Mosque locations
Marked police vehicles will be patrolling some communities with static red and blue lights on their rooftop bars to enhance visibility.
Demkiw said the rise in hate crimes in still a very significant concern.
“We strongly encourage the reporting of any suspected hateful act to police. Our expanded Hate Crime Unit continues to investigate every reported instance of hate, including on the ground at demonstrations, to gather evidence and investigate any suspected hate crimes, or hate speech, or signage,” Demkiw said, noting charges can be laid well after an incident has occurred.
“As we have for the past year, we will continue to ensure that demonstrations are safe while people assemble to express their views,” Demkiw said. “But, let me be clear: hate has no place in Toronto, and we stand united in protecting our diverse communities.”
He said that confrontations with law enforcement, obstructing officers in the course of their duties, or resorting to violence is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.
Demkiw said frustration and feelings of helplessness about the Middle East conflict are real but the solution is not hate or violence here at home.
But we must stand together as a city, and violence and hate, whether directed at each other or at the police, is not the solution.
