Operation Restore supports safer Sandy Hill through coordinated police response
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, July 27, 2026 2:00 p.m.
(Ottawa)—The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has concluded Operation Restore, a week-long initiative focused on addressing community safety concerns and reducing disorder in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood.
Conducted from July 13 to 19, 2026, Operation Restore involved members of the Community Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit, Central Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT), and central frontline officers.
The operation focused on the Sandy Hill area in response to ongoing concerns related to public drug use, drug trafficking, and neighbourhood disorder. Officers conducted targeted enforcement, community engagement, and problem-solving activities while maintaining a visible presence throughout the area.
Operation Restore resulted in several enforcement and public safety outcomes, including:
- 10 arrests related to Criminal Code offences, outstanding warrants, and ongoing investigations
- 16 community interactions
- 20 drug-related interactions
- 22 verbal Trespass to Property Act notices issued
- 14 alcohol disposals
- 2 vulnerable youth safely located and returned to appropriate care
- 1 youth apprehended on behalf of Quebec authorities
- Approximately 35 grams of crack cocaine seized
- 1 stolen e-bike valued at more than $3,000 recovered and returned to its owner
During the operation, officers observed a reduction in open drug use, drug trafficking, and associated disorder. CORE members used authorities under the Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act to address public drug consumption concerns, resulting in compliance through engagement and enforcement measures. No charges under the Act were required.
Residents, businesses, and community partners provided positive feedback regarding the increased police presence and the improvements observed in the neighbourhood during the operation.
Operation Restore demonstrates the effectiveness of a coordinated, intelligence-led, multi-unit approach to addressing community safety concerns, supporting vulnerable individuals, disrupting criminal activity, and enhancing public safety in Ottawa’s central neighbourhoods.
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