More officers expected to patrol downtown Guelph to address ‘overt drug use’ and public safety concerns

Police in Guelph say there will be more officers downtown in the coming weeks to address “overt drug use,” criminal behavior and public safety concerns.

In a statement, Guelph police said the number of drug poisonings in the city has increased since 2020. Poisonings in the downtown area “are more than four times higher than in the next highest neighborhood,” the statement said.

The agency takes a health-first approach to drug addiction, but says the inner city has experienced a disproportionate negative impact from overt illegal drug use compared to other neighborhoods, often resulting in significant public safety concerns for those who live, work and , and visit in the core of our city.”

Police say there have been 35 controlled substance investigations since January 2023, resulting in the arrest of more than 80 people and more than 460 charges.

Officers have also been working with mental health workers from the Canadian Mental Health Association. Over the past six months, the teams have had more than 600 interactions with more than 100 people receiving guidance and support from workers and officials.

“Despite these efforts, illegal open-air drug use and public safety problems have persisted,” police said.

“We are acutely aware of the complexity of issues related to drug addiction and fully support the measures taken by our partner organizations to treat and support people with drug addiction problems,” the statement said.

“However, as the heart of our community, downtown Guelph is a shared public space that must be safe and welcoming for all who live, work and visit.”

Mayor’s message to criminals: ‘Get out of our city’

Mayor Cam Guthrie issued a statement on social media supporting the police department’s move to have more officers downtown. Guthrie says he has spoken to police about the need for frontline police officers.

He says the city is facing “unprecedented overt drug use, crime and criminal activity as a result of the drug trade.”

“Our downtown public spaces should be a safe and welcoming place for everyone, but not for criminals. I know the vast majority of citizens and businesses will welcome this improved approach,” Guthrie’s statement said.

“My message to criminals is simple: don’t just get out of the city center, but also get out of our city.”

Guthrie says he will continue to advocate with other levels of government to help the city address issues including addiction and homelessness.

The encampment remains in the center

Meanwhile, into an encampment St. George’s Square in downtown Guelph will remain in placedespite a new ordinance that prohibits construction in certain areas of the city, including the square.

LISTEN | There are still tents in downtown Guelph, despite the new public space use ordinance:

Colleen Clack-Bush, the city’s deputy chief administrative officer for public services, said there are a small number of encampments on city-owned or operated property that are in violation of bylaws.

“Bylaws staff has already issued verbal notices to those whose structures are in conflict with information about available support and clearer guidance on regulations affecting encampments or temporary structures,” Clack-Bush told CBC News.

Clack-Bush says written orders will be issued in the coming weeks to people who continue to violate the statute.

“If necessary, a notice of violation for constructing the structure will be provided by the housekeeping staff,” she said, adding: “We will continue to lead with a respectful, people-centered and education-oriented approach in enforcing these bylaws .”