STATEMENT ON INCREASED POLICE POWERS
On Friday, April 16, 2021, the provincial government announced new restrictions for Ontarians and increased police powers under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA), allowing police to stop individuals and motorists who are not at home.
The West Grey Police Service will be taking a balanced approach to enforcement, applying the order equitably and legally to ensure we continue to support public health measures while maintaining public trust. This will be consistent with other surrounding and Ontario police agencies.
We will not be conducting random vehicle or individual stops. Enforcement will continue to be complaint driven and proactive, with the goal of gaining compliance. Our actions will focus on those individuals who overtly put others in danger and citizens refusing to comply will be charged appropriately.
Our enforcement efforts will continue as they have since the beginning of the pandemic, focused on the 5 Es:
- Encourage (essential outings only)
- Engage (with the individual)
- Explain (why we are there)
- Educate (on the rules and regulations)
- Enforce (as a last resort)
West Grey Police will continue to support the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit to ensure the safety of our residents – OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS.
Chief Robert Martin