Before revisiting the ongoing conversation about violent crime and personal safety in York Region, I want to once again express my deepest sympathies for the family and loved ones of Mr. Abdul Aleem Farooqi, along with the greater community in which he was deeply respected and beloved. My heart goes out to all grappling with the violent murder of a husband, son, father, brother, friend and leader.
When discussing Mr. Farooqi’s murder and a number of other violent crimes we experienced in York Region over the past two weeks, some took exception to a piece of guidance I provided to citizens in the event they are faced with an armed intruder at their home. Following these crimes and in light of broader, nationwide conversations about citizens’ personal safety—I understand this reaction. I understand the feelings of pain and anger boiling to the surface in our community. And I understand why people feel the need to fight back, and are dissatisfied with any direction to do otherwise.
When I told citizens not to take matters into their own hands, it had nothing to do with politics, or with concern over force used against the perpetrators of home invasions. It was suggested as a tactic in the hopes of preserving lives, should citizens be confronted with an armed intruder. When it comes to defending property, material items can be replaced—but lives cannot.
There is no one piece of advice to offer to citizens who are faced with an intruder in their home—but calling 9-1-1 immediately and avoiding engagement with the suspects has proven to be an effective course of action. These situations are dynamic, chaotic, and difficult to assess in the moment.
Ultimately, a citizen should do what they deem necessary to preserve their own safety, and the safety of their loved ones.
I would like to also address the inaccurate reports around the response time of our officers to this incident, following the 9-1-1 call. While it has been reported that it may have taken police up to 13 minutes to respond—the fact is, our officers were en route within 40 seconds of receiving the call and arrived on scene within 4.5 minutes following the 9-1-1 call.
Our top priority is solving this heinous, disgusting crime and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. That’s what the Farooqi family, and all of York Region deserves.
Chief Jim MacSween
