55 Division A Lesson In Community Policing In The Beach
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55 Division: A Model of Community Policing in the Beach
Summary
In preparing for my photo exhibition and articles, Gene Domagala recommended including the Toronto Police Service's 55 Division in my series about the Beach area. Known for their strong partnership with event organizers, 55 Division is a key player in fostering community safety and support.
Article
Gene Domagala is an expert connector, and he encouraged me to spotlight the Toronto Police Service's 55 Division in my article series. With my photo exhibition looming, I initially resisted. However, Gene emphasized that 55 Division plays a crucial role in community events, making it an essential inclusion.
Following Gene's suggestion, I promptly visited the station, where I was introduced to Superintendent Wayne Peden. He provided an overview of 55 Division, which serves an area from the Don River to Victoria Park Avenue, and from Danforth Avenue to Lake Ontario.
Superintendent Peden highlighted the police's integral role in Beach events like the Beaches Jazz Festival and Easter Parade. Having worked in the area in the 1980s, he recently returned and described the Beach as a safe, desirable community, primarily dealing with traffic and parking issues.
With around 235 staff, including officers and detectives, 55 Division offers a robust presence. Their community response officers proactively address minor issues, preventing escalation. During major events, they collaborate with organizers to ensure minimal disruption to residents, coordinating road closures and safety measures.
Superintendent Peden shared insights into community initiatives. From volleyball programs for at-risk teens to school safety campaigns, 55 Division actively engages with residents and local politicians, striving for strong ties and visible community integration.
I was introduced to Sergeant John Spanton, who detailed the division's units. The Primary Response Unit handles immediate policing and emergencies, while the Community Response Unit focuses on outreach. A dedicated officer leads educational outreach in elementary schools, with two officers managing high school relations.
The Toronto Police Service prioritizes community integration and diversity, actively recruiting women and visible minorities. Sergeant Spanton noted that newer recruits often bring valuable life experience and reflect Toronto's multicultural makeup. Officers with diverse language skills enhance communication with Toronto's immigrant communities.
Officer Regina La Borde, a 15-year force veteran, now serves as a full-time Elementary School Liaison Officer. Her education programs cover traffic safety for young children, internet safety, and anti-bullying strategies. As students progress, topics evolve to include drug awareness and youth violence, preparing them for high school challenges. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current realities.
For more insights and photos, visit [Travel and Transitions](http://www.travelandtransitions.com/interviews/police_55_division.htm).
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