Quinte West OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Christina Reive says the force is focused on crime prevention. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
Quinte West OPP is focusing its efforts on crime prevention.
Detachment Commander Inspector Christina Reive told the Quinte West Chamber luncheon on Friday that the detachment is using analytics, technology and education as methods to deter crimes against the general public and businesses.
She said the continuous issues in the city surround consensual fighting, minor thefts under $5,000, mischief, fraud and traffic infractions. She said distracted driving, speeding and not obeying signage continues to be a problem plaguing local roadways. Insp. Reive echoed previous comments about drivers not getting the message that they can only use hands-free devices when in live traffic and that includes not using a cellphone when waiting at a stop light.
She added the city is having a big issue with graffiti in the municipality that they are documenting and investigating.
Detachment Commander Christina Reive
She also encouraged business owners to educate themselves through the OPP program Project Safe Guard on how to take away opportunities from would be criminals such as locking windows and doors, have a working security camera and lights, have multiple employees on shift, always make eye contact with customers and greet every one as they come through the door.
Following the meeting, Reive talked with reporters about how drugs are an ongoing issue in Quinte West and the surrounding area. This week OPP seized nearly $60,000 in illegal drugs. She said opioids continue to be a cause for concern locally and across the country.
She also emphasized the need for community partners and how the community can help to deter crime.
“We can’t do it all on our own,” she said. “We don’t have all the tools but we know people who have the resources.”
She pointed to schools, seniors, businesses, the City of Quinte West, social services, the Situation Table, Quinte West Community Policing, other enforcement agencies and the community.
“If we can’t help you we will find someone who can.”
