Police Initiative Leads to Dozens of Arrests, Increased Safety Presence

The Saint John Police have made 26 arrests in the Waterloo Village area following a focused week-long initiative called ‘Operation Safe Streets.’ The operation, which ran from September 22 to 28, aimed to proactively disrupt criminal activity and restore a sense of security for residents and local businesses.

In a media release published on October 3, the police force detailed the results of deploying dedicated foot, bike, and vehicle patrols throughout the neighbourhood.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The week of heightened enforcement produced significant results. Here’s a look at the key outcomes:

Arrests: Police made a total of 26 arrests, with 14 directly related to drug offenses.

Traffic Enforcement: Officers conducted 16 traffic stops, resulting in 9 motor vehicle tickets being issued.

Community Support: The operation also involved 11 well-being checks and responses to 3 calls for medical assistance, highlighting the initiative’s dual focus on enforcement and community care.

What’s Next for Waterloo Village?

This increased police visibility isn’t just a one-time event. The Saint John Police confirmed that its Quick Reaction Team (QRT) will maintain a proactive presence in Waterloo Village and the uptown business district. The team will continue its enforcement activities while also responding to specific community needs as they arise.

The Saint John Police extended its thanks to several partners for their collaboration on this operation, including the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, the RCMP, Justice and Public Safety, Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN), Mobile Mental Health, and the City of Saint John By-Law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main goal of Operation Safe Streets?

The primary goal was to increase police presence in Waterloo Village to proactively address and disrupt criminal activity, thereby restoring a sense of public safety to the community.

How many of the arrests were drug-related?

Of the 26 total arrests made during the operation, 14 were related to drug offenses.

Will the increased police presence continue?

Yes. The Saint John Police Quick Reaction Team (QRT) will continue to be active in the Waterloo Village area and the uptown business district to enhance visibility and respond to community issues.

Who partnered with the Saint John Police on this operation?

The operation was a collaborative effort involving the Saint John Police Street Crime Integrated Enforcement Unit (which includes members from KRPF, JPS, and the RCMP), SCAN, Mobile Mental Health, and City of Saint John By-Law enforcement.