Glengarry safety initiative cuts crime in first year

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WINDSOR POLICE NEWS RELEASE
Glengarry safety initiative cuts crime in first year

One year after the Windsor Police Service launched a public safety initiative in the Glengarry neighbourhood, crime in the area has dropped significantly, with notable reductions in violence as well as property and drug-related offences.

In August 2024, Windsor Police launched this initiative in response to ongoing concerns from residents and the Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation (WECHC) regarding crime and disorder in the 300 and 400 blocks of Glengarry Avenue. This collaborative strategy focuses on enhanced police actions, targeting underlying issues that contribute to crime and social disorder, and building meaningful relationships between community service providers and residents.

Over the past year, Windsor Police Service teams – including City Centre Patrol, Problem-Oriented Policing Unit, Nurse Police Team (a partnership with Windsor Regional Hospital), and Crisis Response Team (a partnership with Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare) – have maintained an active and sustained presence in the neighbourhood. Operating from a dedicated office space at 333 Glengarry Avenue, officers have worked closely with WECHC, Family Services Windsor-Essex, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and other community partners to address issues related to mental health, substance use, and social disorder.

As part of this initiative, Windsor Police and partner agencies have hosted several Community Care Fairs in the neighbourhood, giving residents on-site access to health services, social supports, and crime prevention resources.

This co-ordinated approach has produced positive year-over-year improvements:

  • Crimes against persons decreased by 38%
  • Crimes against property decreased by 45%
  • Drug crimes decreased by 63%
  • Calls for service decreased by 14%
  • Total arrests increased by 33%

Proactive enforcement drove a 162% increase in Criminal Code offences mostly related to court release violations, including (but not limited to) bail compliance and probation violations.

“This initiative is an example where collaboration and integration between public service delivery providers can deliver significant results,” said Chief Jason Bellaire. “Policing is essential in any community safety framework, but it is our health and human services partners who have a front-and-centre role in these strategies. The Windsor Police Service is grateful to have these local partnerships and remains committed to building on this momentum toward sustained safety and stability in the neighbourhood.”

"The positive results we’re seeing in Glengarry are the product of intentional, on-the-ground collaboration. By establishing a shared space in Glengarry with Windsor Police, CMHA and Family Services Windsor-Essex, we’ve brought critical supports directly into the heart of a community that has faced longstanding challenges related to safety, access and support,” said Fabio Costante, WECHC Chief Executive Officer. “This presence has made a real impact: crime is down significantly, and residents now have better access to the services they need. WECHC is proud to be part of this integrated housing model that prioritizes safety, stability and lasting community resilience."

If you or someone you know needs support, contact Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.

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