More Than a Dozen Arrests in Downtown Safety Initiative

Guelph Police Service officers made more than a dozen arrests and seized illegal substances over the weekend as part of the downtown public safety initiative. During an enforcement campaign officers focused on illegal open drug use and other safety concerns in the downtown area.

The arrests included nine individuals arrested for possessing controlled substances. Each of these individuals had their drugs seized and were released without charges after being provided information about available community supports.

As well a Guelph man was arrested for trafficking fentanyl after officers observed a drug transaction behind a downtown social service agency. Five other individuals were arrested on criminal charges including possessing stolen property, breaching court orders and failing to attend court as required.

The Guelph Police Service follows a health-first approach to drug dependency and is committed to seeking health-related solutions whenever possible. However open drug use and public safety issues have persisted in the downtown requiring the intervention of police in conjunction with community partners.

“Our members continue their important work conducting proactive patrols and responding to concerns raised by our citizens,” said Guelph Police Chief Gord Cobey. “We are deeply committed to working with our community partners to assist in providing supports to those in need. We are equally committed to ensuring that our shared public spaces remain safe and welcoming for all.

“Criminal activity, including illegal drug use, will not be permitted or normalized in our downtown,” Chief Cobey added. “We encourage our citizens to call us anytime they witness illegal activity or need our assistance.”