Statement from the Chief of Police on Intimate Partner Violence in Ottawa

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, December 4, 2025 10:30 a.m. 

(Ottawa) — Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) continues to cause deep harm in our city. Violence against women has been declared an epidemic across Canada and here in Ottawa, and we all have a responsibility to recognize that this crisis is happening around us – often silently, often behind closed doors. Women have the right to a life free of threats, intimidation, and abuse. IPV is not a private matter; it is a community issue, a public safety issue, and a human rights issue. 

Reports of IPV continue to climb. From January through September, IPV reports rose by 8.6% (from 5,050 in 2024 to 5,486 in 2025) compared to the same months in 2024. 

Last week, a woman who has been experiencing violence was able to call 911 despite suffering serious injuries. During the call, a man could be heard taking the phone from her and ending the call. Our officers responded to check on the well-being of the residents and found the woman with significant injuries requiring immediate medical care. The man was arrested, and the investigation is ongoing. 

We rarely share details about incidents like this. Our priority is always to protect the identity and safety of victims/survivors. But it is important for our community to understand that this is happening in Ottawa – on your street, in your building, in the lives of people you may know or care about. It may be happening to someone who does not feel safe to come forward, or it may be happening to you. 

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out for help wherever you feel comfortable. You do not need to contact police to access safety or support. Many people and often specific communities have complex, negative histories making it understandably difficult for them to involve law enforcement, and we recognize that trust must be earned. OPS is committed to the belief that we all have a right to feel safe; we are listening.    

Our community partners, shelters, crisis lines, counselling programs, cultural supports, and advocates are trauma-informed, trained, and many are available 24/7. Please use whichever path feels safest for you. Your safety matters. If you are in danger, call 911.  

If you suspect someone in your life may be experiencing intimate partner violence, please check in. Your voice, your concern, and your willingness to act may be the help they need to find safety. Your action could be the difference. 

As a police service, we remain committed to improving our response to IPV and strengthening the supports available. This includes the creation of the new Victim Reporting Unit (VRU), Risk Navigator program and the Senior Advisor Violence Against Indigenous Women (VAIW). We also continue to develop strategic partnerships, ongoing sharing of IPV trends and statistics, and our participation in community-led efforts such as the White Ribbon Campaign, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women memorial, and the recent jingle dress healing ceremony. We also continue to promote resources such as the Sexual Assault Survivor Guide and our Victim Support Unit, alongside non-police community supports.  

Intimate partner violence can impact anyone including friends, neighbours, colleagues, and loved ones. If you need help, or if you’re worried about someone else, please reach out. Support is available. You are not alone. 

Community Resources (Police & Non-Police Options) 

Non-Police Support Options (confidential, no police involvement required):