Engaged communities prevent crime

OPP News Release

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Breaking and entering, theft from and theft of vehicles and mischiefs are ongoing crimes which directly impact victims and place a strain on valuable police resources. These types of crime are not new, and are very often preventable through community engagement; empowering communities to play an active role in crime reduction initiatives.

Strategic partnerships working diligently towards a community - based shared responsibility may also prevent crime and strengthen community relationships in support of a community’s greatest natural resource - it’s youth.

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recognizes community engagement is a key component of crime prevention and that strong community partnerships are an essential element of an effective crime reduction strategy.

The North Bay OPP will be engaging public through a variety of activities during Crime Prevention Week including:

• Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) classes at four area schools
• Lock It or Lose It Program checks of vehicles at select parking lots
• Participating in the Take your Kids to work day
• November 7, at 6:30pm; one of many community partners setting up an information display at St. Thomas D’Aquin School in Astorville. Our topic – cyber bullying and internet safety.

By educating communities and being proactive in the reduction of crime, the OPP remains dedicated to eliminating the opportunity for crime in support of the OPP’s vision of Safe Communities – A Secure Ontario.

If any member of the media would like to attend one of these events for photos or interviews, please contact me and I will be pleased to make the arrangements.

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