Our Ottawa

Sgt. Barmak Anvari was recognized with the Bruno Gendron Creating Community Award at the Thomas G. Flanagan First Responders Awards, celebrating his exceptional commitment to service both in uniform and through years of dedicated volunteer work.

Beyond his duties as a police officer, Sgt. Anvari has built a long-standing record of community involvement rooted in one consistent focus: supporting youth and strengthening community connections.

Staff Sergeant Devon Archer of the Ottawa Police Service won a 2026 Ontario Police Association Hero of the Year award, recognizing a career defined not only by service in uniform, but by a sustained commitment to youth, mentorship, and community connection.

For years, S/Sgt. Archer has built programs that reach far beyond traditional policing.

An Ottawa Police Service officer whose impact extends far beyond the badge was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to youth, sport, and community on Saturday night.

Constable Christopher Lalonde of East District won the Chief Thomas G. Flanagan First Responder Award, for Lifetime Achievement—an honour presented at the gala on May 30, 2026.

Richard Smith has been a familiar and valued presence at the Ottawa Police Service.

Since joining OPS in the 90s, Richard has brought dedication, precision, and pride to his work, playing an essential role in maintaining document security and helping operations run smoothly every day.

Two members of the Ottawa Police Mounted Unit have new names thanks to local students at English and French school boards that participated in a special contest!

A number of creative and thoughtful entries were received, making the final decision a difficult one.

The creative minds behind one of the Ottawa Police Service’s most innovative public-facing initiatives are being recognized on a provincial stage.

The Ottawa Police Service Strategy team—the group responsible for developing and launching the Community Safety Data Portal—has been nominated for the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Excellence in Information Technology/Services Award.

Trigger warning: This story contains discussion of a mass casualty event and graphic descriptions of injuries, which may be distressing for some readers.

September 3, 2025, was meant to be a vacation.