Windsor police say they've responded to 1,200 calls about public drug use this year

The Windsor Police Service said it's responded to more than 1,200 open drug use calls this year. The release of the data comes as Windsor Police shifts how it handles the issue. Starting this summer, officers began arresting and charging people for openly using illegal drugs, whereas in the past, they typically wouldn't because prosecutors told them they don't often pursue simple drug possession charges in the courts. I can say anecdotally, The problem persists. And when I say the problem, it's the perception. People that come downtown observe what they observe. And it's not always a good look. So our officers are out there to be visible, to engage this behavior. And where appropriate, we're laying the charges. And where it's appropriate, we're approaching it from a compassionate perspective, recognizing that these are addiction issues. Police say this shift is a part of the City of Windsor's Strengthen the Core initiative, a plan brought forward by outgoing Mayor Drew Dilkens in 2024 and unanimously supported by council. Incoming Mayor Fred Francis campaigned on equal policing across city neighbourhoods without spending more money. Francis said Friday that he plans to be on the Windsor Police Services Board and take a deeper dive into how police resources are used. Well, I've already met with police. I met with the chief and the deputy chiefs earlier this week. So we'll move forward with the appointments and the people that will serve on the police services board, and that will be a decision of the board. But certainly, like I said during the campaign, having an internal review to see how police resources are used, I think will come up at the police services board. But it will be their decision and it will be a direction of the board. But certainly that's something I would advocate for. So far this year, 33 arrests were made by Windsor Police when it comes to open drug use. There have also been 560 referrals to community health and housing supports. The Windsor Police Service says it will continue with its proactive enforcement, saying they hope it will deter open drug use while also connecting people with the services they need. Jason Vio, CBC News, Windsor.