Our history

Since its formation in 1971, York Regional Police has grown alongside the communities it serves. What began as a small regional service has developed into a modern police organization whose foundation is steadied on two pillars: Our people and our community.

Our history reflects the dedication of the officers and members who have served over the years. It also recognizes the challenges and opportunities that continue to shape policing today.

Man in officer with head down.

We Remember

Honouring our fallen officers

Remember and the officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. Honour their memories by learning about their service and legacy.

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An open book

Buy the Book

Fifty-year history book

Explore the story of York Regional Police over the past five decades, by purchasing a copy of York Regional Police: 50 Years of Excellence in Policing.

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Pay Tribute

Visit the police memorial

Visit the memorial to fallen officers at York Regional Police #2 District Headquarters and learn how York Regional Police honours those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Learn about the memorial

Key milestones at York Regional Police

A yellow police cruiser sits in front of a red bricked building

1971: Amalgamation leads to regional service

When 14 municipal police departments and the York County Security Police amalgamated to form York Regional Police on January 1, 1971, our region looked a lot different than it does today. At the time, about 200 York Regional Police members served roughly 169,000 citizens.

A woman signs a document

1975: York hires its first woman officer

Joy Dennison paved the way for hundreds of women in policing at York Regional Police when she became our very first. At 27, Constable Dennison had already worked for Toronto Police Service for 10 years when she took the job in York Region. She was first assigned to the Youth Bureau.

A man and a dog next to a police cruiser

1980s: Specialized units established

The Canine Unit was founded in 1989 with dogs donated by the Newmarket Lions Club. The 1980s was a decade marked by the development and expansion of specialized units, which also included Marine, Traffic and Emergency Response.