Police remind community to report illegal activity
The Guelph Police Service is reminding residents to contact police whenever they witness illegal activity, including open drug use or other criminal behaviour.
Police continue to hear from residents, businesses and visitors about concerns in public spaces. They appreciate it when community members bring these incidents forward, as timely reporting helps officers respond appropriately, identify ongoing issues and support safety for everyone in Guelph.
“We understand people are concerned when they see illegal activity in their neighbourhoods. We want residents to know those concerns matter and that illegal drug use in our shared public spaces will not be tolerated,” said Guelph Police Chief Gord Cobey. “Our focus is always on protecting the safety of our citizens and addressing illegal activities. We also want to connect vulnerable individuals with appropriate supports whenever possible.”
Officers work with Service-sponsored IMPACT clinicians for calls where mental health, addictions or other complex needs may be factors. These clinicians can assist with supporting vulnerable individuals, residents, businesses and visitors by helping connect people to appropriate resources.
The Guelph Police Service follows a health-first approach to drug dependency and works closely with community partners and social service agencies to seek health-related solutions whenever possible. When officers engage with vulnerable or unhoused individuals, they make every effort to connect people with supports related to housing, health care and social services.
Property owners and businesses can also contact police for crime prevention advice, including Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessments, to help reduce opportunities for criminal activity and improve safety around private property.
Anyone who observes open drug use or criminal activity is asked to call the Guelph Police Service non-emergency line at 519-824-1212. In an emergency, or if there is an immediate risk to safety, call 911.