FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                  DATE: July 5, 2021

DUFFERIN OPP LAID 224 CHARGES OVER THE CANADA DAY LONG WEEKEND

(DUFFERIN COUNTY, ON) – Officers from the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) went to great efforts this Canada long weekend to keep the roads safe by laying 224 driving related charges.

Members from the Dufferin OPP Detachment focused on the “Big 4” leading causal factors in road deaths, which are:

1. Impaired Operation

2. Distracted Driving

3. Aggressive Driving (including speeding)

4. Lack of seatbelt use

The following charges were laid:

• Speeding – 132

• Stunt/Racing – 14

• Seatbelts – 7

• Distracted driving/other Provincial charges – 59

• Motor vehicle Liquor License Act – 10

• Impaired Operation – 2

It is our mission to promote the safety of all road users throughout the Dufferin Detachment area and reduce the frequency and severity of incidents involving these traffic violations through enforcement and public education.

We would like to thank the majority of safe drivers who were found to be in compliance.

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE:   Dufferin Detachment                                                   DATE: June 23, 2021

DUFFERIN OPP CONGRATULATES STAN WESLEY ON HIS PROMOTION TO SERGEANT

(DUFFERIN COUNTY, ON) – The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is pleased to announce the promotion of Provincial Constable Stan Wesley to the rank of Sergeant.

Sergeant Wesley joined the OPP as a Cadet posted to South Porcupine Detachment and served satellite detachments in the communities of Iroquois Falls, Matheson, Gogama and Foleyet.

As a Cadet, he was able to travel across Ontario and perform a variety of duties, including Crime Stoppers, DARE, Court Officer and Vault Manager. He assisted traffic teams on fatal collisions, attended post mortems and coordinated the transport of food and supplies for major incidents, such as air, ground and water searches, and train derailments.

Stan graduated from the Ontario Police Academy in September 2009 and was assigned to the Dufferin Detachment. Some of his career highlights include becoming a Breath Technician and scenes of Crime Officer. He was the Acting Sergeant for his platoon, coached four recruits and worked in the Courthouse, where he was responsible for court records management, executing warrants, DNA sampling and trial scheduling.

The wealth of knowledge and experience Stan possesses contributed to his success in his promotion to the rank of Sergeant. His positive attitude, dedication to his work, professionalism and commitment to his community make him a great asset to Dufferin County.

“Stan, on behalf of myself and the members of our Dufferin Detachment, congratulations on your well-deserved promotion. We look forward to your continued dedication and leadership in serving our communities.” – Inspector Terry Ward, Dufferin Detachment Commander

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                  DATE: June 23, 2021

DUFFERIN OPP IS EXCITED TO WELCOME NINE NEW POLICE OFFICERS

(DUFFERIN COUNTY, ON) – The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) welcomes nine new officers to the Dufferin County family.

The newly graduated officers attended training at the Ontario Police College in Aylmer, Ontario, as well as specialized training at the Ontario Provincial Police Academy in Orillia.

The OPP Provincial Constable hiring process is extremely competitive to ensure the high caliber of officers. These officers come to us with a wealth of post-secondary studies, vast experience from prior careers, volunteer experience, languages and individual hobbies.

Dufferin OPP is proud to introduce our newest members:

PC Jeff Snow

PC Snow attended the University of Guelph and earned a Degree in Sociology with a focus on Crime and Justice. He worked his way through school as a Life Guard and Swim Instructor before spending a year as an OPP Special Constable and eventually achieving his ultimate goal of Provincial Constable. Jeff’s hobbies include golf, hockey and tennis.

PC Denisa Detkova

PC Detkova attended the University of Toronto and earned a Bachelor in Forensic Science with a double major in Forensic Biology. Her work experience includes a background in hospital security. Denisa was born in Slovakia and moved to Canada at 5 years old. She speaks fluent Slovak.

PC Jordan Vernelli

PC Vernelli studied Police Foundations at Algonquin College. He is passionate about policing and believes the key to connecting with our community is to be a positive role model for the next generation.

PC Grant Garland

PC Garland earned a Bachelor Degree in Law and Justice as well as a Police Foundations Diploma from the Laurentian. His work experience consists of working as a Butcher/Meat Manager and Volunteer Firefighter.

PC Dylan Morash

PC Morash graduated from Lakehead University with a Bachelor Degree in Criminology. He is an outdoor enthusiast enjoying hobbies such as; mountain biking, kayaking and playing hockey.

PC Adam Che Rose

PC Che Rose attended Georgian College where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Human Services Police Studies. He has an employment background in security at varies healthcare facilities. Adam held a student position with the OPP where he worked with the Highway Safety Division and the Tactics and Rescue Unit. His hobbies include mountain biking, snowboarding and running.

PC Michael Murray

PC Murray earned a Degree in Biology from Wilfred Laurier. Michael started his career with the OPP as an Open Source Search Specialist with the Provincial Anti-terrorism Section before achieving his ultimate goal of becoming a Provincial Constable.

PC Ryan Vogt

PC Vogt previously was employed in the marine construction industry before achieving his goal of becoming an OPP officer. Ryan is a family man that enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

PC Julia Coulson

PC Coulson earned a diploma in Travel and Tourism and Foundations of Applied Mindfulness Meditation. Julia’s work history includes; Operations for a Tour Operator and volunteering with Victim Services. She enjoys travelling in her spare time and has been to places such as; Europe, India and Africa.

The diverse life and work experience of these new officers will greatly benefit the safety of our growing Dufferin communities.

Inspector Ward along with the rest of the Dufferin OPP family extends a warm welcome and wishes them all a safe and rewarding policing career.

If you’re interested in a rewarding career with the OPP serving your community, visit opp.ca/careers

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                DATE: June 10, 2021

DUFFERIN OPP LAUNCH “QUIET RUNNING” INITIATIVE

(DUFFERIN COUNTY, ON) – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Dufferin Detachment area roadways continue to see a considerable presence of improperly maintained or modified motor vehicles causing excessive noise.

On Sunday, June 13, 2021, Dufferin OPP and Central Region Traffic will partner for a summer initiative. It is our mission to increase compliance of the Highway Traffic Act as it relates to unnecessary noise through education and enforcement.

The focus will be on improperly maintained and modified passenger vehicles that are causing unnecessary and excessive noise for the citizens of Dufferin County. The most commonly observed infractions officers encounter include:

• No muffler/improper muffler

• Unreasonable noise – signalling device

• Unnecessary noise

• Have a siren

• Disobey sign (use of engine brakes)

We would like to thank the majority of vehicle owners who are in compliance.

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                     DATE: June 8, 2021

 FREEZE! YOU’VE BEEN CAUGHT DOING THE RIGHT THING

 (Orangeville, ON) – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers will be on the lookout in communities across the province for youth demonstrating acts of kindness and exhibiting positive behaviour. Today, the Province-wide Operation Freeze campaign launched at the Circle K Convenience Store located at 108 Dawson Road in the Town of Orangeville.

Through a partnership with Circle K Convenience Stores, OPP officers will be handing out “Positive Tickets” for a number of actions such as: doing a good deed, being kind to others, participating in community activities, demonstrating community pride, deterring crime, observing school crossing rules or as an icebreaker to establish a rapport with kids in their patrol area.

During the upcoming summer months, OPP officers across the Province will be presenting thousands of these coupons to kids. Officers will not seek or record any identifying information during their interaction with a youth as it is not the intent of the program.

The OPP “Positive Ticketing” program will continue to achieve its goal of creating positive interactions with youth. Operation Freeze provides law enforcement officials with an additional tool to foster strong relationships with the youth they serve in their communities.

“This is a great initiative and allows officers the opportunity to interact with youth in a positive manner,” said Inspector Terry Ward, Dufferin OPP Detachment Commander. “These interactions with police can open dialogue with the youth and leave a good lasting impression.”

A video announcing the launch of Operation Freeze featuring our community partners has been released on Twitter @OPP_CR and Facebook @OPPCentralRegion.

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                    DATE: June 7, 2021

DUFFERIN COUNTY CITIZENS CAN CONVENIENTLY REPORT MINOR CRIMES ONLINE

 (DUFFERIN, COUNTY, ON) – The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) invites citizens to consider using Online Reporting – a secure, simple and convenient tool to report minor crimes.

Online Reporting is a user-friendly and convenient process that can be done from any mobile device, laptop, tablet or computer with internet access. To access the system, a user can go to opp.ca/reporting, choose their location and click on “Click here to start a report.” This will take the user to a secure link where they will be given precise instructions on how to fill out the report.

Only occurrences that do not involve an injury, a suspect or evidence at the scene are applicable. If the crime does not meet the criteria for reporting online, the user will be advised to call police directly.

Crimes that are eligible for Online Reporting, regardless of value, include:

• Theft

• Mischief / Damage to Property (including graffiti)

• Mischief / Damage to Vehicle

• Theft from Vehicle

• Lost / Missing Property

• Stolen License Plates or Validation Stickers

• Driving Complaints

Online Reporting is beneficial to both the public and the police. It provides a convenient alternative to the citizens of Ontario, while allowing frontline officers to focus their efforts on other proactive and crime prevention strategies within our communities.

By providing people with another option for reporting crimes, the OPP is hopeful that more incidents will be reported, resulting in the collection of information to develop future crime prevention initiatives.

To access the system, go to opp.ca/reporting.

The OPP can be contacted toll-free anytime via the non-emergency number at 1-888-310-1122. In an emergency, always call 9-1-1.

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Media Contact:
Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha
Dufferin OPP Detachment
519-943-3838
Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

FROM/DE: Dufferin Detachment                                                    DATE: May 20, 2021

 DUFFERIN COUNTY CITIZENS ARE ASKED TO CONTACT POLICE ABOUT PUBLIC SAFETY MATTERS

 (DUFFERIN, COUNTY, ON) – The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding citizens to contact police directly regarding public safety matters. Members of our communities are vital partners in community safety.

Recently, the Dufferin OPP has been notified of incidents indirectly. Reports and complaints have been shared on social media or through other agencies without immediate or direct police contact. Members of the public are reminded to call police directly regarding any public safety or police related matter.

The OPP takes all allegations of criminality seriously and conducts a thorough and exhaustive investigation holding those responsible to the fullest extent of the law. Incidents reported sooner give officers a greater opportunity to locate the parties or vehicles involved, thoroughly investigate and lay charges in a timely manner.

The concerns of our citizens are our top priority. The members of the Dufferin OPP are committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value your contribution to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity or a traffic complaint, please contact the Dufferin OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.

Media Contact:

Provincial Constable Terri-Ann Pencarinha

Dufferin OPP Detachment

519-943-3838

Terri-Ann.Pencarinha@opp.ca

RASH OF VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT THEFTS IN DUFFERIN COUNTY

https://www.orangeville.com/news-story/10392887-map-rash-of-vehicle-equipment-thefts-in-dufferin/?s=n1?source=newsletter&utm_content=a03&utm_source=ml_nl&utm_medium=email&utm_email=F33F16741011B17B5A7CD3E67148AD99&utm_campaign=orhl_98790

Residents are reminded to lock their vehicles and to not leave keys in the ignition or hidden in their lawn or farm equipment and to block or lock trailers to prevent an easy hook up.

January 27, 2021 – Orangeville Banner Article:  DUFFERIN OPP WARNS HIKERS AFTER PURSES, WALLETS, ELECTRONICS TAKEN IN PARKED VEHICLE SMASH AND GRABS

https://www.orangeville.com/news-story/10318276-dufferin-opp-warns-hikers-after-purses-wallets-electronics-taken-in-parked-vehicle-smash-and-grabs/?s=n1?source=newsletter&utm_content=a03&utm_source=ml_nl&utm_medium=email&utm_email=F33F16741011B17B5A7CD3E67148AD99&utm_campaign=orhl_92166

POLICE SERVICES BOARD VACANCY – PROVINCIAL MEMBER

Effective March 20, 2020, the Township of Melancthon Police Services Board will have a vacancy for its Provincial Member.  If you are interested in sitting on the Board as the Provincial Member, please visit the Public Appointments Secretariat website at www.pas.gov.on.ca for a downloadable application form or to apply online.

JOIN THE DUFFERIN OPP AUXILIARY UNIT

(DUFFERIN COUNTY, ON) – The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has started assembling its Auxiliary Unit and are looking for motivated and community orientated community members to apply.

What you can expect by being a member of an auxiliary program:

-can help prepare you for an exciting career in policing

-provides direct learning opportunities from experienced OPP officers, and;

-you will develop a better understanding the role of policing and take pride in making your
communities safe

Duties may also include:

Assisting with:
●community events
● seat belt clinics
● RIDE initiatives
● safety displays
● presentations
● victim assistance
● ceremonial duties

To apply, please submit your application online by visiting www.opp.ca/careers