Elected officials and police are taking action to address recent criminal activity in Wallaceburg’s downtown core.
Chatham-Kent councillors Aaron Hall and Carmen McGregor met with Sgt. Doug Cowell with the Chatham-Kent Police Service Community Mobilization unit last week to discuss recent incidents of vandalism and other crimes that have occurred around Wallaceburg businesses.
“Carmen and I just wanted to share some of the information that we’d been hearing and make sure they were aware,” said Hall.
Most recently, owners and managers with Glasstown Brewing Company told CKXS News that their property on James Street had been vandalized with graffiti and a fire was set to a portion of the boardwalk along the Sydenham River.
Hall emphasized that these crimes need to be reported to police to ensure that appropriate action can be taken.
“If any business owner or any resident in our community sees something that doesn’t seem right or they been the victim of some type of a crime… share it with the police,” he said. ” They need to have that information in order for them to do their jobs.”
Hall added that discussions are ongoing about holding a town hall meeting in the near future that would involve members of the public, council and the police service. A similar meeting was held prior to the pandemic in 2019.
“A bit of forum for the community to share their frustrations, share their concerns,” said Hall. “And at the same time, give the police an opportunity to share some of their tips or some of their suggestions on how to best report some of the things people see.”
While further discussion will need to take place, Hall said he’s hopeful the town hall meeting can take place soon in the coming months.
Public Information Officer Sgt. Lynette Hodder said the police service has been made aware of issues experienced in downtown Wallaceburg and officers are continuing to work with municipal officials to address them
“In 2021, our Community Mobilization Section conducted a thorough Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design audit and presented the recommendations to the BIA,” said Hodder in an email. “These recommendations aim to deter offender decisions to commit criminal acts and to empower residents to gain control of the area. We will continue working towards a solution through partnerships and by exploring different approaches.”
Hall said the next step will be to meet with the downtown business owners to review the findings of the audit to see if the appropriate measures have been taken.
“It’s needed information and it has good suggestions from the police on how to make some improvements and change some things that might help deter crime and unwanted activity in the downtown core,” he said. “It’s all about creating an environment that’s safe and doesn’t attract crime.”
Hodder said anyone who sees suspicious activity is encouraged to contact police to allow officers to record and investigate the matter efficiently.
To report a crime, call the CK police non-emergency number at 519-352-1234. For emergencies, dial 911.