New Officers and Higher Investments Highlight Durham Police Update to Brock Council

Darryl Knight, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Standard Newspaper

A significant increase in policing resources for North Durham, the hiring of hundreds of new officers and stronger community engagement efforts were among the key messages delivered to Brock Township Council during a presentation from the Durham Regional Police Services Board.

At its June 29 meeting, council welcomed Board Vice-Chair Karen Fisher, who provided an overview of policing priorities, governance, and community safety initiatives taking place across Durham Region.

Ms. Fisher told councillors that the board has remained focused on implementing its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes modern policing, stronger community partnerships, and building public trust through greater transparency and accountability.

“The Durham Regional Police Services Board recognizes that public safety is built on trust,” Ms. Fisher explained. “We’re committed to ensuring residents have confidence in their police service through openness, community engagement, and continued investments that strengthen policing across every part of Durham Region, including North Durham.”

Among the highlights was the hiring of approximately 300 new police officers over the past two years to meet growing service demands. Fisher also noted that policing investment in North Durham has increased by 143 per cent, providing additional resources to communities such as Brock, Scugog, and Uxbridge.

Councillors also heard about the launch of the Durham Regional Police Community Safety Portal, an online platform that gives residents access to crime statistics, safety data, and policing information. The board continues to strengthen relationships with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, local MPPs, municipalities, and school boards through ongoing outreach and collaboration.

Region-wide statistics presented to council showed reported violent crime increased by 1.5 per cent in 2025 while reported property crime rose by one per cent. However, when population growth is taken into account, overall crime rates experienced a slight decline. Road collisions also fell by 0.7 per cent, while emergency response times remained a key performance measure.

Mayor Mike Jubb thanked Ms. Fisher for the presentation and acknowledged the increased attention being paid to North Durham.

“We appreciate the continued investment in our rural communities,” Mayor Jubb opined. “Residents want to know they’re receiving the same high level of policing services as the rest of the region, and it’s encouraging to hear about the additional officers, improved transparency, and commitment to working with local partners.”

Councillor Peter Frank said access to information helps residents better understand policing priorities.

“I really like the way DRPS is going, and the Community Safety Portal is an excellent step toward keeping residents informed,” Councillor Frank added. “Providing people with reliable local data and maintaining open communication helps strengthen public confidence and supports safer communities.”

The presentation also highlighted achievements in areas including auto theft enforcement, bail compliance monitoring, diversity and inclusion initiatives, youth recruitment into policing, and continued investments in officer training and education. Residents can access board agendas, budgets, policies, and livestreamed meetings through the Durham Regional Police Services Board’s website.

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