PERTH -The next phase of the town’s transition process from the Perth Police Service to the Ontario Provincial Police is set to begin.
Following their training in Orillia, Perth Police officers will be returning to front-line duty. From March 25 through to April 5, during the next phase of the transition, Perth officers will be patrolling the town with their OPP colleagues.
Upon their return, the Perth officers will be paired with an OPP officer and patrols will take place in OPP vehicles. This will help to further familiarize Perth and OPP officers with new patrol areas for what will be the Perth zone when the transition occurs.
“You will still see our officers wearing the Perth uniform up until they are sworn in as OPP officers on April 6,” said Perth Police Chief Pat Capello. “Due to the fact they have just received the training in Orillia, they will be using their newly issued use-of-force equipment and will continue to familiarize themselves with the OPP vehicles during this next phase.”
“The purpose of the mandatory training was to familiarize the Perth officers with specific equipment and procedures used by the OPP,” explained OPP Insp. Gerry Salisbury. “For example, there are variances in some of our computer systems, we use different firearms and our patrol cars are outfitted with some different features.”
“Every effort is being made to ensure the transition proceeds as seamlessly as possible,” said Perth police services board chair Stephanie Gray. “Public safety continues to be the number one priority.”
During this phase, there is no change to contact information for police services. In an emergency, people should call 9-1-1 as usual. For administrative calls to the Perth Police Service, the 613-267-3131 number continues to be active.