Some money is coming to local police services to fight human trafficking.
Owen Sound, Hanover, West Grey, Saugeen Shores and Neyaashiinigmiing First Nation police, in partnership with Grey Bruce Public Health and Victim Services will receive a total of $315,260.
In order to be receive funding, police services that applied had to partner with at
least two community organizations from different sectors.
The funding is coming through the Proceeds of Crime – Front Line Policing grant stream, and will be dispersed over a three-year period from 2020-2023.
The grant repurposes funds forfeited during criminal prosecutions and helps local police fight gun and gang crime, human trafficking and sexual violence.
The money will be used by the five services to provide enhanced community awareness and education, specialized police training for human trafficking investigators, investigative equipment as well as funding the services of a crime analyst to assist with these complex investigations.
Owen Sound Police Chief Craig Ambrose says in a statement, “We know that members of our communities are being victimized by human trafficking and these additional funds will go a long way toward enhancing our ability to help these victims and bring those that prey on them to justice.”
Saugeen Shores Police Chief Mike Bellai notes, “We are delighted with being provided the necessary funds for training and investigations through the Proceeds of Crime Grant and to be partnering with our neighbouring Police Services to jointly combat this cross jurisdictional issue in our communities.”
Hanover Police Chief Chris Knoll says, “This partnership is just another example of the excellent working relationship between our area police services and community partners as we work together to make our communities safer.”
Meanwhile, Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker says, “Any time we have the opportunity to take away the resources criminals use to commit a crime, we should seize it, and with this grant program, that's exactly what we are doing.”
Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson agrees, adding, “I believe re-investing the proceeds of crime into programs that help keep our streets safe is the best way to spend these funds.”