Support on the scene: Community Support Officer program expands

specialized roles filled at york regional police

Eight new Community Support Officers (CSO) filled special roles at York Regional Police in 2023.

The CSO position, a role for special constables, was introduced to our service in November 2022 and provides essential support to frontline officers in neighbourhoods across the region.

CSOs drive distinct cruisers and wear unique uniforms that are identifiable by the blue piping on their hats and pants. They manage important tasks once handled exclusively by police officers, like directing traffic and canvassing neighbourhoods for witnesses and surveillance footage.

They also assist with road closures, provide security at insecure premises and crime scenes and take reports for property crimes.

Attending these low-threat, low-risk calls for service helps keep the public safe and allows sworn officers to respond where they are needed most.

With the additional eight new positions created in 2023, the program now has 12 full-time members, including one member per platoon in #2, #4 and #5 Districts, with a future possible expansion to #1 District.

This past year, CSOs attended 3,000 calls for service.