Our Ottawa 2025
Our Ottawa is where you will find all of our good news stories. Do you have a story, an encounter with an officer or a positive experience with the Ottawa Police Service worth telling? Send us an email at [email protected] or tag us on social media: #OurOttawa.
Cst. Liu and Jack
After meeting at CHEO, Cst. Liu reunites with a three-year-old boy who is fighting a rare illness.
Optimism Against All Odds
Canadian explorer Adam Shoalts speaks to OPS officers and civilian members on mindset, building resilience, and overcoming adversity.
Sgt. Melissa Plunkett
Sgt. Melissa Plunkett is nominated for the Police Services Hero of the Year Award for her 24 years of work serving the Ottawa people.
Tactical Unit vs. Capital City Condors
The OPS Tactical Unit hit the ice for a friendly game against the Capital City Condors: a hockey program for individuals living with cognitive and physical disabilities.
Cst. Puneet Deol | Sikh Heritage Month
Cst. Puneet Deol paved the way for Sikh women in policing since becoming the first South Asian female police officer in Ottawa.
Ottawa Police and Paramedics Respond to a Mental Health Crisis
“I never got to express my thanks,” the woman said when she contacted the Ottawa Police to extend appreciation to the first responders who greatly impacted her life. "I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for them.”
Recruit Spotlight: David Teixeira
I was born in Brasilia, Brazil. I am also a proud Canadian citizen. I grew up speaking both English and Portuguese. I would say both are my first languages.
Cst. Naziri Partners with Capital Prosperity Foundation to Help New Mom
Familiar with the Make Your House a Home program through CPF, Cst. Naziri looked into getting them furniture. “The mom was sharing the mattress with her toddler and new baby, and I was hoping to set them up with something safer.”
Recruit Spotlight: Justin Lawn
I have always had a strong passion for public service and chose a career in policing to continue serving others, ensuring safety, and making a positive impact on people’s lives.
Make A House A Home: Cst. Downer and Capital Prosperity Foundation Help Family of Nine
On March 24, Constable Cole Downer responded to a call at a residence in Ottawa. Upon arrival, it became clear that the situation involved a struggling single mother and her eight children living in severely inadequate conditions.
Auxiliary Sergeant Arthur Poon celebrates nine years of dedicated service
The skills I’ve acquired are unique and can’t be found in traditional learning environments. I’ve built strong relationships with officers of different ranks, some of whom have become good friends.
Recruit Spotlight: Kwaku Oduro-Bonsu
My decision to pursue a career with the Ottawa Police Service was guided by the opportunity to serve, help and safeguard my community.
Fraud Prevention Month unites police and Burundian community
Burundi We Want and the OPS co-hosted an event that proved to be a turning point for many fraud victims.
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Tails from the NOC: guide dogs visit community police officers
The Neighbourhood Operations Centre (NOC) had some furry visitors today, and Cst. Kennedy reunites with his furry brother Gopher.
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Always ready: off-duty officer saves a man's life
Tactical Unit officer Kevin Brown saves a drowning man by putting to practice the training he received from Tactical Paramedic Unit.
Above and beyond: two Ottawa officers respond to a senior in need
The Ottawa Police Service communications centre received a 9-1-1 call from an elderly woman who explained that her Personal Support Worker (PSW) had cancelled for the day, and she would be without help.
Alyson Yaraskovitch Awarded Outstanding Analyst of the Year
A crime analyst for over a decade, Yaraskovitch was named the 2024 Ontario Crime Analyst Network (OCAN) Outstanding Analyst of the Year.
Held by Heroes: Jack’s Battle With ALD
An update on Jack's story: the road to stem cell transplant.
A Fingerprint in the Spotlight: Kristin Russell’s Photography Feature
In a quiet lab tucked behind the scenes at the OPS, Kristin Russell spends her days managing the forensic identification laboratory with the precision and care of a scientist — because that’s exactly what she is.
Recruit Spotlight: Spec. Cst. Bikram Basra
Hi, I’m Special Constable Bikram Basra—a community advocate who’s passionate about helping others and making a difference wherever I can.
Recruit Spotlight: Spec. Cst. Diego Brizuela-Lopez
I was born in El Salvador and moved to Ottawa in 2001. I speak both English and Spanish, and I’m proud to bring my diverse background and dedication to serving and protecting the Ottawa community.
Recruit Spotlight: Spec. Cst. Dylan Collier
When I saw that OPS had a position in forensics as a Special Constable, it felt like the perfect opportunity to come home and give back to the community I grew up in.
Little Witnesses, Big Impact: Community Youth Unit Turns Fear into Friendship at Ottawa Daycare
After a police arrest unfolded near a daycare, members of the Community Youth Unit returned to spend time with the children, helping ease their fears and create new, positive memories through connection.
Recruit Spotlight: Spec. Cst. William Bell
After spending over two decades supporting those who serve—our military—I’m proud to now step into a role where I can serve my own community here in Ottawa.
Recruit Spotlight: Spec. Cst. Daniel Kamara
I entered this field to help and protect the community, and to gain experience for my goal of becoming a police officer. Welcome to OPS Special Constable Kamara!
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How Ottawa Police Turn Minor Offences into Opportunities for Change
The Ottawa Police Service’s Adult Pre-Charge Diversion (APCD) Unit is transforming the way the city approaches minor offences.
St. Luke’s Park Celebrates Grand Opening of New Basketball Court with Family Fun Fest
On Saturday, August 16, the community came together at St. Luke’s Park for an unforgettable day of basketball, fun, and celebration as the brand-new St. Luke’s basketball court was officially unveiled.
Stolen Bike Returned to Owner Three Years Later
Cst. Derek Thompson of the Ottawa Police Service Central Neighbourhood Resource Team recently recovered an expensive iGO electric bicycle that had been stolen from the ByWard Market back in August 2022.
Building Safer Communities: OPS and Centretown BIA Team Up for Uncommon Spaces
OPS Community Policing Officer Stephanie Lemieux works hand-in-hand with the Centretown BIA to support local businesses and strengthen community trust.
Bridging Services: Ottawa and Gatineau Police Morning Meet
Acting Sgt. Lemay and Constable Larente embody the spirit of collaboration. Different uniforms, different jurisdictions, but one reality: serving communities that share space, challenges, and opportunities.
A Tournament to Remember: Celebrating Champions, Community, and Connection
The 2025 North American Police Soccer Tournament concluded last Friday after three days of sunshine, spirited competition, and community connection.
Stolen Bike Recovered Thanks to Alert Ottawa Police Officer
Cst. Justin Young of the Ottawa Police Service’s Parliamentary District Team helped return a stolen bicycle worth more than $5,000 to its rightful owner.
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Transparency in Action: OPS Data Team Earns Global Spotlight
When Anastasia Kurbakovskaya joined the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) as a Senior Geospatial Data Analyst, she never imagined that one of her maps would one day be featured on the biggest stage in geographic information systems (GIS).
Ottawa Police Service joins the community at the 2025 Canada Army Run
Members of the Ottawa Police Service — both sworn and civilian — proudly laced up to take part in the Canada Army Run alongside fellow community members last Sunday.
Emergency Services Unit Conducts High Risk Search and Rescue Training in Ottawa
Find out how our emergency teams prepare for the riskiest situations!
The Ottawa Police Service and Reconciliation
OPS is proud to announce the launch of a new dedicated webpage:ottawapolice.ca/reconciliation.
Ottawa Police Launch Community Incident Report to Keep Residents Informed
From graffiti to minor assaults, these incidents are often underreported in the media, resulting in a lack of awareness among community members. The Community Incident Report aims to bridge that gap by providing timely, relevant updates directly to residents.
Holding on to Community: Sandra Pilote’s Fence of Hope
In the heart of Ottawa’s Lowertown, a row of colourful banners flutters along a quiet fence — words like HOPE, THINK POSITIVE, and BE KIND painted in bright strokes by the neighbourhood’s children.
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Saved By Strangers: Reuniting the People Who Saved Marek Widomski
For Marek, the most astonishing part of his story isn’t just surviving cardiac arrest — it’s how strangers, armed with training and a nearby AED, saved him.
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Right Place, Right Time: OPS Marine, Dive, Trails Team Aids Diver in Distress
While conducting dive training out of town this week, members of the MDT Unit found themselves responding to a real-life emergency.
Passing the Torch: Pierre and Simon Lalonde
Father and son, civilian members Pierre and Simon talk about the passion of three generations of Lalondes at OPS.
CPF and OPS help Ottawa woman deliver pumpkins in Lowertown neighbourhood
The Capital Prosperity Foundation stepped up with OPS to bring a pumpkin delivering initiative back to life.
Crime Prevention Week: East District Officers Share Tips to Keep Your Valuables Safe
Community Policing teams are connecting with residents across the city to promote crime prevention and share practical safety tips.
Superintendent Zackrias receives the 2025 Leadership in Human and Civil Rights Award
OPS proudly celebrates Superintendent Zackrias as the recipient of the 2025 Leadership in Human and Civil Rights Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Blyth Academy Students Visit Neighbourhood Operations Centre to Learn About Policing
Grade 7 students from Blyth Academy in the Glebe recently visited the Neighbourhood Operations Centre (NOC) as part of their career research project.
East District Community Policing at Costco Cyrville for Crime Prevention Week
As part of Crime Prevention Week, our East District Community Policing team were at Costco on Cyrville Road to speak with patrons about distraction thefts.
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Historic First Indigenous Recruiting Forum Brings Community, Culture, and Conversation Together
The first-ever Indigenous Recruiting Forum made history this week, bringing together participants from across the region both online and in person for two evenings of meaningful connection, cultural celebration, and career inspiration.
A Visible Reminder: Jingle Dress Represents OPS Commitment to Indigenous Women and Girls
The dress, presented earlier in the year by the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, serves as a continuous reminder of our commitment to help ensure the safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the City of Ottawa.
Ottawa Shines with Holiday Spirit at the 56th Annual Help Santa Toy Parade
OPS joined the celebration, decked out in tinsel, lights, and presents. Our Mounted Unit made a special appearance, delighting crowds with their holiday flair.
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Building Bridges of Trust: Kathleen Lanoue’s Role Supporting Indigenous Women
Kathleen Lanoue joined the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) as the Senior Advisor on Violence Against Indigenous Women (VAIW)
Shop With a Cop 2025: A Day of Joy, Community, and Connection
Shop With a Cop 2025 has officially wrapped and what an unforgettable day it was. Across the city, officers paired with children for a day of Holiday shopping and fun.
Meet Piper: Ottawa Police Service’s Newest K9 Detective
Meet Piper — our newest Ottawa Police Service K9 with a very special talent.
December 6th: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Canadians pause to remember the victims of gender-based violence and to reflect on the work still needed to ensure women can live free from fear. At the Ottawa Police Service, efforts to support survivors and encourage reporting are evolving, with promising results.
Stronger Together: Sergeant MacNeil Steps Up for a Family in Need
Sgt. MacNeil, Capital Prosperity Foundation and Matthew House help a mother of two in need.
Thank You to Lionhearts for Supporting the Purse Project’s 10th Anniversary
Their donation will help ensure that women in our community who are experiencing violence or hardship receive essential items and a reminder that they are not alone.
Purse Project Recap: Celebrating a Successful Tenth Year
We are proud to celebrate the successful 10th edition of the Purse Project, a milestone year that once again demonstrated the power of compassion, community partnerships, and collective action.
Welcome K9 Nelson to the Ottawa Police Service
The Ottawa Police Service is proud to welcome the newest member of our team.
Sgt. Devon Archer
Sgt. Devon Archer is nominated for the Police Services Hero of the Year Award for his years of work with youth in Ottawa.
Child Mental Health
An Ottawa mom shares her story to thank OPS for their constant caring, empathetic response when her child would run away from home.
Cst. Soontiens and Cst. Ward
Two OPS officers help save nine family members in carbon monoxide tragedy
March 21 is International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination
On this day, the Ottawa Police Service reflects on the steps to ending the injustices of racial discrimination that continue to take place every day.
Beyond Gift Cards: How Capital Prosperity Foundation and OPS Are Transforming Families' Lives
The CPF and OPS have been working together since their partnership in 2023 to help Ottawa families experiencing poverty, here's how.
Recruit Spotlight: Dana Boettcher
I was born and raised in the Ottawa area, so I'm excited for the opportunity to serve, protect and connect with the city that I love so much.
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Car Seats for Newcomers
The Ottawa Police and Capital City Foundation link arms to launch the Car Seat for Newcomers program.
Recruit Spotlight: Mihir Samak
I was born and raised in Pune, India. I am eager to embark on this new journey and serve the community with integrity, compassion, and empathy.
Recruit Spotlight: Patrick Nolet
To prepare myself for this career, I continued my studies in Vancouver and Australia before returning to Ottawa. For nearly four years, I worked in a homeless shelter and volunteered with at-risk youth coaching sports.
Lebanese-Born Call Taker Brings Heart, Heritage and Skill to Public Safety
Public safety telecommunicator Sarah Bou Nader is a member of the Ottawa Police Service’s 9-1-1 communications team.
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Detective Akiva Geller: the relentless pursuit to recover a national treasure
When the famous portrait The Roaring Lion vanished from the walls of Ottawa’s historic Fairmont Château Laurier, Detective Akiva Geller was assigned the case.
Recruit Spotlight: Omed Baktair
My passion for policing comes from my commitment to public safety.
Small world: from shared roots to shared duty on a fiery day in Ottawa
Cst. Omer Abdullah responded to a vehicle on fire with firefighter was Hani Dakwar, a friend he met in university back in 2007.
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A decade behind the headset: Anthony Jean
For Acting Supervisor and Dispatcher Anthony Jean, reaching his 10-year milestone with the Ottawa Police Service is more than a career achievement — it's a reflection of the critical skills he’s learned over a decade on the front lines.
The ripple effect: How two officers changed the future of maternity leave in policing
Two Ottawa police officers, Paddye Magill and Carrie Archibald, sparked a shift in maternity leave policy by advocating for systemic change through data-driven evidence, resulting in a groundbreaking agreement.
The Community Youth Unit: a safe place to come forward
For the Community Youth Unit (CYU) of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS), Sexual Violence Prevention Month highlights the crucial work being done year-round to prevent sexual violence among youth before it starts.
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Mental Health CHANGE Initiative: A collaborative path forward
The CHANGE Initiative team is committed to amplifying voices from all backgrounds, experiences, and community organizations, building a more responsive, compassionate, and effective organization, and providing a space for open, honest dialogue between the community and OPS.
From pastor to police communicator: Adam Gilfillan’s path to emergency response
Long before he was translating chaos into calm as an Ottawa Police communicator, Adam Gilfillan was speaking to congregations. His journey from pastor to police communicator is nothing short of inspiring.
Recruit Spotlight: Florence Maheu
My goal is to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of the people I interact with. Welcome to the OPS, Cst. Maheu!
Recruit Spotlight: Cst. Ekaterina Shniger
The Ottawa Police Service’s focus on community policing, diversity, and accountability aligns with my values. Welcome to the OPS, Cst. Shniger!
Recruit Spotlight: Cst. Jeerowel Pardo
I have always admired the positive engagement the OPS has within the community. It’s an honour to be part of protecting and serving the city I love.
Building Connections, Inspiring Futures: Indigenous Youth Visit Ottawa Police Station
On July 11, 2025, the Ottawa Police Service proudly welcomed a group of 14 Indigenous youth and 13 chaperones to the Elgin Street Police Station.
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Superintendent David Zackrias Inspires Students at OCDSB's Human Library
Superintendent David Zackrias inspired high school students at the Human Library event for the fifth year—part of the OCDSB summer co-op program hosted at Brookfield High School.
Building Stronger Communities: A New District Model for Ottawa
Announced by Chief Eric Stubbs, the new district model will move the Service away from a centralized structure toward four full-service districts—West, Central, South, and East—each led by its own Superintendent.
Building Safer Neighbourhoods: Officers Promote Camsafe and 529 Garage
Ottawa Police officers have been setting their blue pop-up tent around the city to connect with residents at parks, markets, and community events to spread the word about two powerful crime prevention tools: Camsafe and 529 Garage.
Helping Local Kids Start the School Year Right
Our Community Youth Unit joined the Caring and Sharing Exchange for their Backpack Packing Event at Carlingwood Shopping Centre.
Ottawa Police Reunite Stolen Bike with Owner Thanks to 529 Garage
A stolen bike found by CPOs was returned to its owner thanks to Garage 529.
Superintendent Dave Zackrias Earns Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award
On the evening of August 13, 2025, at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Bell Lightbox, Superintendent Dave Zackrias stepped onto the stage to accept one of Canada’s Top 25 Immigrant Awards.
Sachin’s Cross-Canada Run Stops in Ottawa
Last Sunday, the community gathered at the Ottawa Police Service Central Station to welcome an extraordinary guest—Sachin, known as “Sach In Motion”—as part of his cross-Canada run for mental health awareness.
Measuring the Impact of CORE: Kaira Theos on the Power of Proactive Policing
Kaira Theos, Research Analyst in the OPS Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit, presents her recent report on CORE.
Recruit Spotlight: Cst. Keith Heino
"I became an Ottawa Police officer because the people I love live here. Policing is the best way I can protect and make a positive difference in my community."
Recruit Spotlight: Cst. Sher Tajdar
As a husband, father, and peace officer, I’m committed to continuing that work; building a safer and kinder world.
Recruit Spotlight: Cst. Sakhar Almoflehi
"With a background in research and community service, I was inspired to pursue policing as a way to build strong connections and make a meaningful impact in the community."
11th Annual Fill the Boat Food Drive – A Community Success
We are proud to celebrate the incredible success of the 11th Annual Fill the Boat Food Drive in support of the Orléans-Cumberland CRC Food Bank.
Torch Run for Special Olympics at OPS Central
OPS, together with local law enforcement partners, proudly hosted this year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR).
50th Anniversary of the Flag: Francophonie at the Ottawa Police Service
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is proud to reflect this diversity through its Francophone members, who carry with them stories and roots not only from Canada, but also from Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Community Policing Unit Shares Back-to-School Safety Tips
Community Policing Unit is helping students and families start the school year safely. From walking with friends and staying alert to following school bus rules, a few simple steps make all the difference.
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Community Partnership Brings New Life to Ottawa Schoolyard
CPF and OPS teamed up on a project that’s already bringing big smiles to young students at Abraar Elementary School in Ottawa.
Lead From Where You Stand: Constable Judith Drover-Janes’ Message to the Next Generation
As a Black woman entering a profession where few looked like her, Cst. Drover-Janes carried more than her badge — she carried the hopes of the women who would come after her.
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Ottawa Police Service to Host First-Ever Indigenous Recruitment Event
This unique gathering is designed to inspire the next generation of officers and strengthen connections with Indigenous communities.
Ottawa Police Mounted Unit Involved in First Collaborative Arrest
While conducting proactive patrols along the path system in the Britannia Park area, Mounted Unit officers helped arrest a subject.
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Ottawa Police Join Ottawa Community Housing Residents for Neighborhood BBQ
OPS joins residents of Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) for a lively neighborhood BBQ, bringing together law enforcement and the community in a relaxed, friendly setting.
An Extra-Special Call for Our Frontline Officers
Jeremie and his wife, Kaitlyn, were on their way to the hospital as she was in active labour. When it became clear they wouldn’t make it in time, they pulled over on Highway 174 and flagged officers down.
East District Community Policing - Building Stronger, Safer Communities in East Ottawa
East District Community Police Officers met with the newly formed East Ottawa Neighbourhood Watch Committee, a collaborative group made up of nine community associations from across East Ottawa.
Ottawa Police Service “Cram the Cruiser” Food Drives – Let's Make a Difference Together
This holiday season, the OPS Community Policing Team is inviting residents to join two special “Cram the Cruiser” events to support families in need across Ottawa.
A Decade of Compassion: Helping Women in Ottawa through the Purse Project
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Ottawa Police Service’s Purse Project.
Neighbourhood Operations Centre hosts Open House for Crime Prevention Week
As part of Crime Prevention Week, the OPS welcomed community members to the NOC for an open house dedicated to safety and partnership.
OPS Joins Dreams Take Flight, Sending Local Kids on a Magical Journey to Disney
It was the morning of Dreams Take Flight, an annual tradition that sends 120 deserving children from Ottawa and surrounding communities on an unforgettable day trip to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
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Capital Prosperity Foundation Joins Purse Project for its 10th Anniversary
“CPF will be contributing $3000 worth of gift cards for this amazing initiative,” said Dan Fried, President of the Capital Prosperity Foundation.
East District Community Policing Celebrates Cram the Cruiser Success
The East CPOs want to thank everyone who helped make the Cram the Cruiser Food Drive at Innes Road Sobey’s a tremendous success!
Positive Impact: 100 Good News Stories
Our Ottawa began as a simple but meaningful initiative. We wanted to tell more of the impactful stories happening across our city—stories of connection, compassion, and community.
A feathered rescue on the morning shift
Constable Young carefully secured an injured barred owl and transported it to a local bird sanctuary for treatment.
OPS Partners with Zonta International to Say NO to Violence Against Women
By coming together, the OPS, Shelter Movers, and Zonta Club of Kanata-Stittsville demonstrate that community safety and gender equality are shared responsibilities, and meaningful change happens when organisations with similar missions come together.
Honouring Extraordinary Courage: OPS Officers Awarded the Ontario Medal for Police Bravery
Constables Kyle Lamothe, Samson Vo, Paddye Magill, and Patrick Wiseman were formally recognized for heroic actions carried out during two separate high-risk incidents in 2023 and 2024.
East CPOs Bring Holiday Hope to Ottawa Kids
We teamed up with Toy Mountain and Salvation Army volunteers to help deliver toys and ensure no child in Ottawa is left without a present this Christmas.
Canada Post Recognizes Ottawa Police with National Partnership Award
A year of collaboration, leadership, and shared commitment to safety: Canada Post Security & Investigation Services has presented the Ottawa Police Service with the 2025 Law Enforcement Ally of the Year Award.