Dear Residents,

I trust this message finds you in good health and spirits. I am writing to provide you with an important update on recent developments regarding the safety of our community. Our ward councillors, Councillor Haslett-Theall and Councillor Gittings, alongside the dedicated members of the Halton Police Services, specifically Superintendent Sandy and Detective Sergeant Hansen, have been working diligently to ensure our collective well-being.

In a meeting held last night, we received reassurance that comprehensive steps are being taken to uphold the safety of our community, addressing the pressing issues faced by our residents. Despite the challenges we may encounter, it is reassuring to note that Halton continues to experience relatively low crime rates in comparison to neighbouring communities.

During our meeting, the police shared invaluable prevention tips that can significantly enhance the security of our community. A useful tool that can help recover vehicles if they are stolen is to use aftermarket GPS devices, such as air tags, securely placed within your vehicle. To bolster car safety from petty theft, it is recommended to keep doors locked at all times when you are not in the vehicle.

Regarding the prevention of break-and-enters, it is crucial to keep doors locked, especially during the day when most incidents occur. Thieves often knock on front doors to check for occupancy. If you answer the door, they may claim to be selling something. If there are no signs of occupancy, the perpetrators typically enter through the back door, their primary target is usually the master bedrooms, with the intention of being in and out within five minutes. It was recommended that, if possible, do not keep your valuables in the Master Bedroom. It's important to note that they are less likely to enter if they believe someone is at home including children, providing a measure of peace of mind.

The police emphasized the significance of promptly reporting any suspicious activity, and communicating with your trusted neighbours including letting them know your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your property. Your vigilance and cooperation are pivotal in maintaining the safety of our community.

Looking ahead, addressing the root causes of these issues involves complex steps including making changes to our judicial system.

I will be actively working on this initiative in the coming year, and we encourage you to contribute by writing to our local Members of Parliament (Anita Anand) and Members of Provincial Parliament (Stephen Crawford), urging them to support bail reform. Your voice matters, and together, we can work towards creating a safer environment for our community.

Thank you for your unwavering support and cooperation. Let us stand together to ensure the well-being of our community.

For the most up-to-date information and relevant updates, I encourage you to visit the Halton Police Services website at [https://www.haltonpolice.ca/en/index.aspx

Wishing you happy holidays and a healthy, safe new year.

Warm regards,
Alex