Good Afternoon All,
Paula Fletcher arranged a conference call this afternoon for the BIAs in her riding and 55 Division's Superintendent Stroble and some members of his team. This was in response to concerns we've expressed about the safety of our areas while most of the businesses are closed.
Since the closures 55 Division has been very active in working to keep the area as safe as possible. Here are the details that we can share:
Patrols:
- There are increased patrols on the Danforth, Queen and Gerrard
- The Primary Response Unit (these are officers who usually just cover 911 calls) have taken on area patrols when they are not answering a 911 call.
- Project Night Walker has been initiated since the city-wide shut down on March 17th. In our area that means that we have the following coverage: Community Response Officers on patrol from 6pm to 5am; Major Crimes' plainclothes officers on patrol along with the above-noted Primary Response Unit. Parking Enforcement officers have also been redirected to include area patrols throughout the daytime.
Break & Enters:
- Our area has had a very low rate of reported B&Es: 1 in Jan.; 1 in Feb; 1 in March and none so far in April.
- Superintendent Stroble stated that crime throughout the city has been substantially reduced since the shut-down.
Increase of Individuals in high level crisis:
- There has been an increase of individuals suffering from a high level of crisis. These are people who perhaps have an existing mental illness, live on the street etc. This increase is to be expected - the current situation is challenging for everyone and some aren't able to cope as well as others.
- A number of you have asked me what to do when you see someone in the area who is obviously in trouble. 55 Division has a Mobile Unit available to help. The unit has a police officer and a mental health nurse. The unit will come to the assistance of the person and provide appropriate care depending on the level of crisis. So, please call the police if you see someone in distress - use your judgement, if it seems urgent call 911 or less urgent but still requiring attention call the non-emergency line: 416-808-2222.
Finally, attached is a good checklist that 55 Division has created for each of you to review. I would recommend that you follow the steps on this list especially if your business is completely closed and you aren't able to check on it everyday. And a reminder, if you are a business who is operating please remember to leave your empty cash drawer where it can easily be seen before you lock up for the day.
Thanks,
Susan