New Ottawa policing unit focuses on rehabilitation instead of punishment

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has formalized the creation of a new policing unit meant to redirect people charged with minor offenses away from the justice system after testing it through a pilot project for over a year.

The Adult Pre-Charge Division (APCD) Unit will assess the cases of arrested individuals recommended by officers and connect them with social support services if they fulfill the program’s criteria. APCD Unit members will also take into consideration the victim’s desires when making their decision.

Eligible individuals will then be contacted by the Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa, who will be in charge of sanctioning them and recommending them for any social, or public health services.

The unit’s participating service providers includes the Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa, the
John Howard Society of Ottawa, the Odawa Native Friendship Centre and the Tungasuvvingat Inuit.

Service providers can also provide extra support for diverse community members — including Inuit, First Nations and Métis — under Restorative Justice Programs that reflect their culture and perspectives.

“Many who have been referred are dealing with issues related to homelessness, poverty, addiction or mental health,” said Tania Hasbani, a community justice worker with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa.

“The program provides timely support and referrals to programs and services that address their individual needs.”

The APCD Unit began as a pilot project in late 2022 and is part of the police’s ongoing commitment to align with the City of Ottawa’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan while helping to reduce or eliminate the number of minor criminal activities in the community.

According to a police release, 208 people have been referred to the Adult Pre-Charge Diversion Pilot Program since October 2022 for various offences that includes assault, mischief and theft under $5,000 among others.