Funding for new video surveillance equipment and technology will help police fight crime
YORK REGION — The Ontario government is investing $200.000.00 to help York Regional Police expand its video surveillance program and better protect the community against gun and gang violence.
The funding is being delivered through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program and can be used to replace outdated equipment, expand or enhance current technology and install new or additional CCTV surveillance cameras in areas where gun and gang violence, illegal drug activity and human trafficking are prevalent.
“King-Vaughan families and seniors deserve safer streets, which is why our government is providing the York Regional Police with the resources it needs to protect local communities and hold criminals to account,” said Stephen Lecce, MPP for King-Vaughan. “By investing in CCTV cameras in high-crime locations and strengthening the province’s efforts to combat bail non-compliance and auto thefts, Ontario is taking action to fight crime and keep families safe. We continue to call on the federal government to implement sweeping reforms so that repeat violent offenders are behind bars, not released on bail.”
York Regional Police is one of 24 police services across the province receiving funding with more than $2.8 million being allocated through the 2023-24 CCTV Grant program.
“Our government is taking action to keep Ontarians safe,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “CCTV surveillance systems are an important part of local police work to detect, prevent, and deter criminal activity. The systems also enhance police efforts to investigate crimes and provide evidence necessary to lay charges.”
QUICK FACTS
The CCTV Grant was first introduced in 2020. Since that time, the Ontario government has allocated approximately $7.4 million in funding for surveillance systems to police services across the province.
The grant funding covers 50 per cent of project costs up to a maximum of $200,000 for each successful project.
The Ontario government is investing $163 million to immediately strengthen the province’s efforts to fight crime including combatting bail non-compliance and auto thefts.
QUOTES
“York Regional Police is grateful for any funding from the province that helps us combat violence and ensure community safety. Funding for the expansion of CCTV camera surveillance will augment our ongoing efforts to eradicate gun and gang violence, illegal drug activity and human trafficking.”
Chief Jim MacSween
York Regional Police
“Our government's investment in upgrading and installing new state-of-the-art CCTV systems will help provide the York Regional Police with the tools they need to ensure greater public safety for our communities. Families deserve to live in communities free from the fear of gun and gang violence."
Michael Parsa
MPP for Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill
"As part of our ongoing commitment to community safety, the Ontario government is proud to invest $200,000 in support of York Regional Police's efforts to combat gun and gang violence. This funding, provided through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program, strengthens our collective mission to enhance safety and security in our communities."
Logan Kanapathi
MPP for Markham – Thornhill
"Putting the safety and well-being of our community at the forefront, our government is taking bold steps to expand and strengthen the video surveillance program. This strategic move will equip York Regional Police with critical tools to proactively deter and effectively respond to gun and gang violence, reinforcing our unwavering commitment to the protection of our residents.”
Billy Pang
MPP for Markham-Unionville
"All residents and businesses want to reside in a safe and secure environment. This funding will enhance community security and provide York Region Police the tools they need to better serve our constituents."
Dawn Gallagher Murphy
MPP for Newmarket—Aurora
“The safety of our residents is our top priority, and we believe that proactive measures like Project Behave play a crucial role in maintaining a secure environment for all. We are grateful for the dedication of York Regional Police and their commitment to keeping our neighborhoods secure. Together, we are dedicated to protecting our neighborhoods and fostering a brighter, safer future for everyone.”
Daisy Wai
MPP for Richmond Hill
"I am thrilled to hear of our province's $200,000 investment in York Regional Police. The presence of cameras serves as a deterrent to perpetrators and aids police in criminal investigations. This ensures the safety of our local communities and businesses. We are committed to making sure our police have the resources necessary to keep our communities safe."
Laura Smith
MPP for Thornhill
“I am pleased that our government is investing in enhanced CCTV programs in our communities. This funding will help local police to deter crime for our local businesses and residents and continue to keep them safe.”
Caroline Mulroney
MPP for York-Simcoe
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