Province gives Winnipeg Police $350K for specialized tools and training

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Province gives Winnipeg Police $350K for specialized tools and training

October 4, 2018

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The province is investing $350,000 into specialized tools, resources and training for the Winnipeg Police Service with funds from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund.

“Police officers require specialized tools, resources and training to help reduce the risks associated with their jobs, especially the dangers of drugs such as methamphetamine,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen. “These strategic investments help ensure Winnipeg police can adapt and respond to the needs of the community, while also supporting officer safety.”

The investment will be spent on replacing four self-contained breathing apparatuses used by officers in the Clandestine Lab Unit. These members respond to high-risk situations involving large quantities of drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl. Police will also be getting a hand-held unit that can detect narcotics and explosives. Part of the investment will also cover the costs associated with sending five officers on specialized training.

Winnipeg Police will also be purchasing a number of other items with the money such as:

equipment needed to expand the tactical emergency medical support unit, to 24 from 20 members;
first aid kits, tourniquets and related devices for officers who may be required to provide first aid when responding to high-risk situations;
a tactical robot equipped with a camera used to inspect potentially dangerous situations while keeping officers at a safe distance;
specialized training related to 911 operations for members of the emergency call centre;
an automated licence plate reader to identify vehicles connected to outstanding warrants and criminal activity, while also supporting better traffic enforcement;
training for members of the technological crimes unit focused on smartphone forensic investigations; and
a portable hailing device that would allow officers to communicate more clearly and effectively in large crowds.

“Illegal guns, gangs and the illicit drug trade continue to present unique investigative challenges for the Winnipeg Police Service,” said Max Waddell, Inspector, Winnipeg Police Service.” With the latest addition of innovative operational equipment and advanced training techniques, this will ensure that our police members achieve safe and successful outcomes.”