Greater Sudbury’s downtown core faces ongoing challenges related to public safety and social disorder. On any given day, residents and visitors may encounter open drug use, intoxication, littering, loitering, panhandling, trespassing, and property crimes such as theft and mischief. Safety, however, is not solely defined by the absence of harm – it also means feeling secure, confident, and respected in public spaces.

To address these concerns, the Greater Sudbury Police Service has launched a 30-day initiative titled the Supported First Strategy, as of November 2025. This initiative is part of the broader Project 360 Community Safety framework and is designed to reduce open drug use through a compassionate, community-based approach.

The Supported First Strategy prioritizes connecting individuals experiencing addiction with vital support services – housing, food, and addiction treatment – before considering enforcement. Arrests are reserved for cases where individuals repeatedly decline assistance or pose a significant risk to public safety.

In collaboration with local organizations, officers are engaging directly with vulnerable individuals, offering pathways to recovery and stability. The initiative emphasizes diversion over detention, aiming to build trust, reduce harm, and foster a healthier downtown environment.

Week One Results: November 3-7, 2025

  • 72 proactive patrols were conducted in the downtown core.
  • Officers provided support in 42 occurrences, connecting individuals to housing, addiction services, and food resources.
  • 16 drug-related calls were addressed under Project 360, resulting in the seizure of:
    • 10.2 grams of crack cocaine and fentanyl
    • 8 needles
    • 12 crack pipes

Impact on Social Disorder Calls

Calls involving unwanted persons – individuals loitering, trespassing, or refusing to leave private property – decreased by:

  • 12% compared to the same week last year
  • 33% compared to the previous week

These calls are classified as social disorder incidents, not criminal offences. Officers respond to ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals involved.

Ongoing Community Engagement

Through regular foot and bike patrols, officers continue to:

  • Build trust with residents and business owners
  • Respond to crimes in progress
  • Apprehend individuals who pose elevated risks to public safety
  • Connect vulnerable community members with essential services

For non-emergencies, call police at 705-675-9171 or report online.

In an emergency, call 911.

Together, we are committed to fostering a downtown that is safe, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all. The Supported First Initiative is a step toward 360 community safety – where health, compassion, and accountability work in unison.

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