"It could be a very useful tool, said Sarah Kennedy, president of the Ontario Special Constables Association. However, it is putting us in front of people that are unpredictable, she said. And they're putting us in front of them without also giving us the legislation and the tools we need for officer safety and for public safety."
"The change would allow special constables working on transit to direct people to stop using illegal drugs in a public space, arrest and charge people who don't and take the illicit substances. The proposed new regulation would be part of a law passed in 2025 meant to prevent public drug use."
"The special constables who patrol the Toronto Transit Commission are peace officers appointed by the Toronto Police Services Board but do not have firearms, only pepper spray and a baton. An association representing special constables in Ontario, says the powers have to come with tools to manage volatile situations."
Ontario is considering regulatory changes to enable special constables on public transit to direct people to stop using illegal drugs, arrest non-compliant individuals, and confiscate substances. The proposal stems from 2025 legislation targeting public drug use, with public feedback accepted until March 1. Special constables, who are peace officers without firearms but equipped with pepper spray and batons, argue these expanded powers require additional tools for managing unpredictable situations and ensuring officer and public safety. The Ministry of the Solicitor General frames the change as protecting families during commutes. Violations carry penalties up to $10,000 or six months imprisonment. Advocates express concern that the measure risks further victimizing vulnerable populations.
Read at www.cbc.ca
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