Ontario Protecting Toronto Against Gun and Gang Violence
Funding for new video technology will help police fight crime in our communities
NEWS: September 14, 2023
ETOBICOKE – The Ontario government is investing $120,000.00 to help Toronto Police (TPS) expand its video surveillance program and better protect the community against gun and gang violence, Etobicoke-Lakeshore MPP Christine Hogarth reported.
The funding is being delivered through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program, and can be used to replace outdated equipment, expand or enhance current technology and install new or additional CCTV surveillance cameras in areas where gun and gang violence, illegal drug activity and human trafficking are prevalent.
“Community safety is our highest priority as a government,” Hogarth said. “It is essential that police forces across the GTA have access to cutting edge technology to keep our streets safe – and to crack down on carjackings.
“This funding announcement will ensure that those who protect us have the most advanced equipment available for the job.”
Toronto Police Service is one of 24 police services across the province receiving funding, with more than $2.8 million being allocated through the 2023-24 CCTV Grant program, Hogarth added.
The CCTV Grant enables the OPP, First Nations police, and municipal police services to install or upgrade CCTV cameras in locations where criminal activity is known to happen. The presence of cameras serves as a deterrent to perpetrators and aids police in criminal investigations. It’s one of many initiatives under the Guns, Gangs, and Violence Reduction Strategy to help police, prosecutors, and community partners fight organized crime across Ontario.
“Our government is taking action to keep Ontarians safe,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “CCTV surveillance systems are an important part of local police work to detect, prevent, and deter criminal activity. The systems also enhance police efforts to investigate crimes and provide evidence necessary to lay charges.”
QUICK FACTS
- The CCTV Grant was first introduced in 2020. Since that time, the Ontario government has allocated approximately $7.4 million in funding for surveillance systems to police services across the province.
- The grant funding covers 50 per cent of project costs up to a maximum of $200,000 for each successful project.
- The Ontario government is investing $163 million to immediately strengthen the province’s efforts to fight crime including combatting bail non-compliance and auto thefts.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
MEDIA CONTACT
Nabeel Ranmall – Office Manager
Office of the MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore
Telephone: 647 391-4563
nabeel.ranmall@pc.ola.org
Hunter Kell
Solicitor General’s Office
Hunter.Kell@Ontario.ca