Social media and new technology are part of the focus for the Timmins Police in the next three years.
The Timmins Police Services Board approved the 2017-2019 business plan Nov. 20.
“The business plan identifies goals and objectives going forward for the next three years. It’s a good opportunity for us to re-evaluate what we’ve accomplished from the past business plan and where we’re working toward going forward,” said Kate Cantin, Timmins Police communications co-ordinator.
While social media is helping the force share their message, they are also using it to help with investigations.
A recent example, explained Cantin, is the hit and run in Timmins where the police used social media for information on who the driver may be.
“We’re utilizing social media for that as well, which is great because it has a very wide reach,” she said.
As other technology advances, she said Timmins Police is also keeping abreast with new tools for the E-crime and identification units to use where they can, and where it’s financially feasible.
This is the first time that a public survey was held to help identify goals.
According to the document, the areas the community wants a focus on are: drug enforcement and investigation of violent crimes, awareness and programming to help victims of crime, anti-bullying programs, continuing downtown foot patrols, cultural awareness and sensitivity programs for officers, and improving events involving youth.
Some of the accomplishments listed in the plan are: creating a Community Mobilization Committee, proactive programs such as the medication drop-off day, and Patch-4-Patch, the D.A.R.E. leadership camp, and restructuring patrol zones.
The board is mandated by the government to update its business plan every three years.
The document can be read online here.
