Peterborough Police Not Participating In Assault Style Federal Compensation Program

The Peterborough Police Service will not be an active participant in the Assault Style Federal Compensation Program (ASFCP), a buy-back program for firearms, announced Wednesday.

stock photo.

In a message from Peterborough Police Chief Betts, he breaks down the decision.

“After careful consideration and review of the information currently available, an operational decision has been made that at this time the Peterborough Police Service will not be an active participant in the Federal Assault Style Federal Compensation Program (ASFCP). This means, we will not be deploying officers or resources to actively seek out those with firearms that fall within the scope of this program. The Police Service Board is aware of this decision, and a report will be presented to the Board at its next Board meeting in Feb. 2026.”

“The federal government has been clear, ‘participation to obtain compensation through the ASFCP is voluntary, compliance with the law is not, therefore, all owners who do not participate in the program must dispose of or permanently deactivate their prohibited firearms and devices before the amnesty period ends on Oct. 30, 2026.’”

“We remain committed to public safety and to reducing firearm-related harm in our community; however, there are significant gaps within the ASFCP program, including insufficient clarity around the details and expectations of the program, such as the logistics of operationalizing such a program including the expectations of police services to safely engage with this program.”      

“While the ASFCP may help reduce the availability of domestically sourced prohibited firearms, our current priorities related to firearms investigations are focused on those who use firearms in the commission of a criminal offence, irrespective of whether they are legally or illegally owned: stated otherwise, if a person commits a criminal offence in our community, and uses a firearm in the commission of that offence, we will bring the full weight of our resources to bear to ensure that person is brought before the courts to answer for their actions.”

“The Peterborough Police Service has long-established procedures for investigations involving firearms, including how to respond to those who wish to turn firearms over for destruction, and our police service remains focused on disrupting criminal networks and preventing crime by deploying our limited resources where they will have the greatest and most immediate impact on public safety.  We recognize the federal government’s commitment to addressing gun violence and will continue working with them and the Province of Ontario, to disrupt and combat such activities in our community.”

On Jan. 19, the Public Safety Canada portal opened for individuals who wish to declare their firearms for possible compensation under the ASFCP. To determine the approach being undertaken in their respective community, Canadians are invited to consult the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program website and direct any questions to the Public Safety Canada Help Centre.

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Peterborough Police Service Launches N0H8 Awareness Campaign To Combat Hate Crimes

The Peterborough Police Service has launched the N0H8 public education and awareness campaign; which aims to reignite awareness about hate bias and hate crimes, how people can report such incidents and the role of law enforcement.

photo courtesy of the peterborough police service, facebook.

This campaign serves as a commitment made by the Peterborough Police Service to address hate through the support of the Proceeds of Crime Grant. Additional commitments included training made available to sworn and civilian members of the Peterborough Police Service and the development of an online visual tool that will help give more understanding to what hate looks like in the community.

Throughout the work funded by the grant, the Peterborough Police Service has connected with a group of community partners to help understand the needs and landscape of hate/bias in the community. 

The goals of the campaign are to:

• Raise awareness about what hate and/or hate incidents may look like in our community

• Promote personal stories of courage and acceptance

• Provide access to educational resources and community supports

• Encourage more residents to report hate incidents through the Peterborough Police Service online reporting portal

“We are happy to be able to bring this N0H8 campaign to life in our community. Over the past five years, on average, 46 hate/bias incidents are reported to our service,” said Peterborough Police Chief Stuart Betts. “In 2024, more than half of those incidents resulted in charges. We are also aware that these types of incidents are underreported and that is why we are reaching out to the community to encourage more people to report. This may result in a spike of hate-motivated incidents/crimes being reported, which is to be expected with a campaign of this nature.”

A website has been created that offers information about resources, provides a definition of what a hate/bias crime or incident is and a direct link to the hate bias crimes/incidents online reporting form.

The Peterborough Police Service is encouraging residents, businesses and schools to participate in spreading the message of N0H8.

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Peterborough Man Facing Assault Charges Following Alleged Needle Throwing Incident

Peterborough man arrested after police officer draws conducted energy weapon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A Peterborough man, 28, is facing two charges following an incident in the downtown Saturday evening.

According to a media release, Peterborough Police state officers responded before 8 p.m. after a man reported someone had thrown a needle at him in the Charlotte and Aylmer streets area.

When police arrived, they located a man matching the suspect description walking in the area.

It’s alleged the man took off on foot when officers approached.

After a short foot chase, an officer drew their conducted energy weapon (CEW) and the man surrendered without incident.

The man has been charged with assault with a weapon and fail to comply with a probation order.

He is current bound by an order to keep the peace and be of good behaviour.

He was released from custody and will appear in court on November 5.

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23-Year-Old Courtice Man Facing Multiple Charges After Fleeing Police and Getting In a Collision

A 23-year-old, Courtice man is facing multiple charges after a collision in Peterborough on Monday evening.

Photo courtey of J.J.L. via Peterborough Scanner Feed.

At roughly 9:40 p.m., a general patrol officer in the George Street and Dalhousie Street area spotted a truck squealing its tires in a parking lot. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled. Police did not pursue the vehicle due to public safety. Police received a call regarding a two-vehicle collision at George and Rink Street shortly after that involved the fleeing driver.

The suspect was transported to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment of minor injuries and released. 

He has been charged with the following:

• Operation while impaired - alcohol

• Operation while impaired - Blood alcohol (80 mg plus)

• Flight from police- Class G1 licence holder - unaccompanied by qualified driver

• Careless driving – Highway Traffic Act

• Novice driver - B.A.C. above zero - HTA

• Driver failed to wear seat belt properly - HTA

The accused was released on an Undertaking and will appear in court on Aug. 8.

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Knights of Columbus 45th Annual Police Appreciation Night Recognizes Heroic Citizens and Officers

The Peterborough Police Service and the Knights of Columbus Ernest J. Wolff Council 798 gathered Wednesday to present awards to citizens and officers who displayed acts of courage and commitment to the community.

photo courtesy of peterborough police service, facebook.

This year’s commendations were presented to citizens and officers for their assistance over the past three years.

Citizen Commendations:

• Rob Reynolds

• Matt Cooper

• Hunter Hoey

• Justin Schaude

• Molly Touzel

• Kaylynn Delong

• Nikki Casey

• Jeff Lustig

• Chris Formosa

• Amy Gosland

• Britney Graham

• Michelle Scheeters

• Kelly Lahay

• Leslie Cangas

• Francis Joseph Edwards

• Jake Hartjes

• Mariah Hartjes

• Madison Sargent

• Natalie Jennings

• Kelli McNamara

• Tim McNamara

• Star Hodge

• Nichole Bartley

• Timur Abdrakhmanov

Carol Winter Humanitarian Award – awarded to a member of the Police Service who has contributed to the needs of the vulnerable in our community.

• Staff Sergeant Daniel MacLean

Robert Lewis Bursary Award – awarded to the graduating constable with the highest achievement at Ontario Police College.

• Constable Lily Gamble (Class of 2019)

• Constable Brandon Bigelow (Class of 2019)

• Constable David Wickham (Class of 2020)

• Constable Kristopher DiClemente (Class of 2021)

• Constable Suzanne Szafran (Class of 2022)

Service Pins for Civilian Members:

• Mary Lee – 30 years

• Jennifer Tippin – 20 years

Knights of Columbus Meritorious Service Awards:

• Sergeant John Townsend / Constable James McIntyre

• Constable Robert Cowie & K9 Isaac

• Detective Constable Brian Urquhart / Detective Constable Mark MacDonell (former)

• Sergeant Kirk Kelly

To read about the actions of these heroic community members, visit the link.

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Peterborough Fire Services and Peterborough Police Issue Fireworks Safety Message

Residents are asked to respect their neighbours and fellow residents when using fireworks in the City of Peterborough.

file photo.

City by-laws allow for the use of family or casual fireworks in the City on private property. Fireworks cannot be discharged on City property. Larger exhibition-style fireworks displays require a permit. 

While fireworks displays may be permitted, residents who use fireworks must follow the Noise By-law and be aware of safety precautions when using fireworks. Fireworks can also disturb pets. 

Peterborough Police receive a number of complaints, mostly noise complaints, about fireworks.  Peterborough Police reminds residents to be respectful of other residents’ lawful right to enjoy their property and to be safe.

Peterborough Fire Services reminds residents that using fireworks can be dangerous, causing injury or property damage. Fire Services provides the following safety tips when using fireworks: 

• Only adults who are aware of the hazards and have read the label should handle and discharge fireworks. 

• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks. 

• Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees and dry grass. 

• Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged. 

• Do not discharge fireworks in windy conditions. 

• Keep sparklers away from children, as they are extremely hot and pose a risk of burns and eye injuries. 

The City of Peterborough by-law regulating fireworks displays and the Noise By-law are available online at peterborough.ca/bylaws. 

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Peterborough Police Seeking Information After Glass Smashed At Eight Local Bus Shelters

Peterborough Police Service is asking anyone who may have seen anything suspicious or has video footage to come forward after the glass was smashed at eight bus shelters earlier in the week.

file photo.

On Tuesday, Peterborough Police received an online report stating the incidents happened between the night of Feb. 19, and the morning of Feb. 20. Damage is estimated at $8,000.  

The bus shelters damaged were:

1. Dobbin Road and Lansdowne Street

2. Brealey Drive and Lansdowne Street

3. Clonsilla Avenue and Lansdowne Street

4. Monaghan Road and Lansdowne Street

5. Chemong Road and Milroy Drive

6. Chemong Road and Simons Avenue

7. Water Street and Edinburgh

8. George Street and Princess Street

Anyone with information is asked to call the Peterborough Police Crime Line at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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‘A Hand Up’ Free Concert at Junction in Support of Community Organizations

A free concert in support of various community organizations to be put on at the Junction Nightclub on Jan. 22.

photo courtesy of DreamTeam Concerts.

DreamTeam Concerts, in partnership with Kawartha Food Share and United Way Peterborough & District (with support from the Peterborough Police Deputy Chief Tim Farquharson) have launched the emergency fundraiser to raise funds for both the United Way and Kawartha Food Share.

These organizations were chosen because of their integral community support through the unprecedented challenges the community may face around homelessness, poverty, mental health and addictions. These organizations supply many other local charities and programs with resources to be able to help the community as well. 

The lineup includes the musical talents of Ty Wilson, Jesse Slack, SJ Riley, Baz Littlerock and Tyson Briden, High Waters and Bowie Lives Unplugged.

A silent auction will be available with many items donated from local Peterborough businesses.

There will be opportunities to donate in many ways at this event, though DreamTeam says those who are unable to make it can donate through the GoFundMe page.

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$200,000 of Equipment Stolen From Peterborough Construction Site

Peterborough Police are investigating a report roughly $200,000 in tools were stolen from a construction site Tuesday morning.

On Tuesday, officers were made aware of a theft that had happened sometime between 5:30 p.m. on Monday and 6 a.m. Tuesday. The equipment had been taken from a locked container and several manholes at a construction site in the Lily Lake Road and Fairbairn Avenue area. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the Peterborough Police Crime Line at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.stopcrimehere.ca

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40-Year-Old Man Taken To Hospital After Falling Over Second-Floor Railing at Peterborough Square

A 40-year-old man was taken to a Toronto hospital after falling over a second-floor railing at Peterborough Square on Monday afternoon.

Just before 5:00 p.m, Peterborough Police were called to the mall in the George Street and Simcoe Street area after the man fell.

Polic determined that the incident is not considered criminal in nature.

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