York Regional Police cruiser driving away on a path with a lot of green foliage.

Earlier this week, the Ontario Inspector General of Policing issued the first-ever Notice of Issue to strengthen police responses to rising antisemitic and hate-motivated incidents.

In the Notice of Issue, Ontario Inspector General of Policing Ryan Teschner outlined seven actions for police services and police boards to address the rise in antisemitic and hate-motivated incidents.

The seven actions include:

  1. Improving the identification and tracking of antisemitic hate through consistent classification practices to strengthen data and evidence-based policing 
  2. Centralization of policing functions that strengthen investigations and victim response through a multidisciplinary approach 
  3. Promoting consistent application of release conditions for individuals charged with hate-motivated offences 
  4. Enhancing supervisory oversight of hate-motivated investigations 
  5. Expanding support for victims and communities, and the use of community impact statements 
  6. Consistent training on contemporary antisemitism and the legal and other tools to respond 
  7. Strengthening police board oversight, prioritization and public reporting on hate-related issues 

"York Regional Police is committed to creating a region free from hate and antisemitism. Hate has no place in York Region, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring everyone feels safe, secure and welcome," said Chief Paulo Da Silva. "We welcome the release of the Notice of Issue from the Ontario Inspector General of Policing and will support the recommended actions as they apply to policing in our region.”

Chief Da Silva said many of the actions outlined in the notice "align with, and are already embedded in the work our officers do every day."

"We know these actions are essential to providing the highest quality of service to our community, allowing us to strengthen our response to hate and antisemitism," he said. "Public safety is a shared responsibility, and we will continue to work closely with our community partners, neighbouring police partners and all levels of government to combat hate in all its forms. Together, we can build a safer and more inclusive region."

For more information, and to read the Notice of Issue in full, click here.