The provincial and federal governments are being urged to continue collaboration on justice reform and better public safety measures to counter the growing crisis of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV).
In recognition of International Women’s Day on Saturday, the Peel Police Service Board and Peel Regional Police penned a letter to Premier Doug Ford, Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, and Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform Graham McGregor.
The two agencies emphasized the urgency around stronger policies and enforcement mechanisms to address repeat IPV offenders, illegal firearm trafficking, and the rise in stranger sexual assaults committed by those with no legal status in Ontario.
The police board said there is also the need for systemic changes at the federal level to address policy gaps that allow repeat violent offenders to remain in communities, enable the illegal flow of firearms across borders, and limit enforcement options against those who pose ongoing risks to public safety.
“The reality is clear — too many women continue to suffer in silence, living in fear of abusers who manipulate gaps in our justice system,” board chair Nando Iannicca said in a statement Thursday.
“Peel Regional Police is leading the way with specialized enforcement and support teams, but policing alone cannot solve this crisis. We need a coordinated effort across all levels of government to ensure meaningful protections for victims and accountability for offenders.”
Police said the IPV Unit has been at the forefront of tackling one of the most persistent and complex crimes affecting communities.
Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized that while his service remains committed to prevention, intervention and enforcement, addressing IPV requires a system-wide approach.
“Our officers witness firsthand the devastating impact of intimate partner violence, and we know that prevention and enforcement must go hand in hand,” Duraiappah said.
“We welcome the opportunity to work with our provincial and federal partners to explore solutions that enhance victim protection, improve oversight, and strengthen the ability of law enforcement to respond to high-risk cases before tragedy strikes.”