Windsor police use Police Week to strengthen community trust, promote crime prevention

The Windsor Police celebrate Police Week alongside Victoria Martin, a Grade 6 student dubbed 'Chief for a Day'. Seen in Windsor, Ont. on May 7, 2026. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)

Police officers, tactical units, and community outreach teams filled Devonshire Mall on Thursday as Windsor police kicked off Police Week with a focus on strengthening ties with the community and promoting public safety.

This year’s provincial Police Week theme, ‘Protecting Ontario Through Service,’ recognizes the work of officers and law enforcement personnel across Ontario.

Displays from specialized units, recruiting officers, and community services teams were set up throughout the mall, allowing residents to meet officers and learn more about policing outside of emergency situations.

“It’s a great way for us to connect with the community,” Windsor Police Chief Jason Crowley said during the opening ceremony.

“It humanizes our officers and humanizes the profession. It’s really that connection piece that we have been working so hard with the community.”

The opening ceremony also featured “Chief for a Day” Victoria Martin, a Grade 6 student from St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School, who joined Crowley during the event and took part in police activities throughout the day.

“I got to see the stations and stuff. They’re all amazing,” Martin exclaimed.

“I love all the officers.”

Martin said she wanted the opportunity to learn more about policing and what officers do in the community.

“I just thought it’d be cool to see what it’s like to be a police officer,” she said.

Crowley joked that Martin quickly became a favourite among officers after arriving with donuts for police personnel during her first command meeting.

Crowley said maintaining public trust remains a critical part of modern policing.

“We rely on the public not only for support, but for their help,” he explained.

“To ensure that trust is there, that they’re trusting that we’re doing our job and doing the right thing — that’s a big part of that piece of the puzzle.”

Police Week activities also included displays from the Windsor police auto theft unit, as officers continue encouraging residents to take precautions to protect their vehicles.

Windsor police investigated 478 vehicle thefts in 2025, with 70 per cent of stolen vehicles eventually recovered. Police have previously noted many thefts involved unlocked vehicles or keys left inside.

“Auto theft is always a problem and always a concern for sure,” Crowley said, adding Windsor has not experienced the same level of organized high-end vehicle theft seen in some larger Ontario cities.

Community Services Officer Const. Anthony Salloum said events like Police Week allow officers to interact with residents in a more relaxed environment.

“Most of the time we’re going to people’s worst days,” Salloum said.

“Here, we’re here to build trust with the community, help them feel more comfortable with the police.”

Windsor resident Helen McLaughlin said the event gives people an opportunity to better understand policing in the community.

“What a way for the residents of Windsor to come out and meet the actual people behind the departments,” she said.

“It seems like the crime is increasing in every city, not just in Windsor. And it’s important that we as the residents know how to take care of our property,” she added.

Police Week events continue at Devonshire Mall through Saturday.

More photos are available here.