The Province is investing more than $1.85 million into policing programs and resources for police agencies across Manitoba through the criminal property forfeiture program.

“The criminal property forfeiture program is a unique opportunity to take money from unlawful activity and put it to good use,” said Justice Minister Heather Stefanson.  

The RCMP K9 unit will be receiving $91,000 to purchase six ballistic vests for the animals to better protect them in higher-risk situations. “We are proud to help support new equipment to keep these highly trained dogs safe in dangerous situations,” said Stefanson.  

The unit will also receive two new wireless camera units that allow K9 handlers to see what the dog sees in real-time, allowing them to provide commands to the dog or to suspects using a built-in speaker system.   

“Through the criminal property forfeiture program, we have the ability to strip criminals of the proceeds they have gained through illegal activity and enhance policing services across Manitoba,” said Scott Kolody, commanding officer, RCMP D Division. 

The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) will receive more than $534,000 to purchase specialized equipment to support its investigations including a portable X-ray scanner and ion scanner, 10 new bikes for the downtown police patrol and equipment needed to add four members to its tactical medical support team.  Funding will also be used to support the work of a criminologist and offer a new mental health and wellness program for officers.

Part of the funding announced today will be dedicated to victim services programs throughout Manitoba. The $450,000 will fund things like offsetting travel and parking costs for family members who come to court for matters involving a fatality and programs for women who have experienced domestic violence.