Features Editor’s Commentary
Embracing technology for public safety

Policing is a dynamic field that continually evolves to meet the needs of society. Over the years, traditional methods of law enforcement have been refined and innovative approaches have emerged to enhance community engagement and safety. As the editor of Blue Line, I have seen the transformation within Canadian law enforcement over the last few years, from the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to the implementation of community-oriented policing strategies. This ongoing evolution reflects a commitment to serving communities effectively while adapting to the shifting landscape of public safety challenges.

In this month’s cover story, I asked Peel Regional Police (PRP) Chief Nishan Duraiappah which new technologies have made the biggest impact on policing operations over the last few years.

Duraiappah has been PRP’s Chief since October 2019 but has been a member of law enforcement since 1995. Now having served for almost three decades, he has seen police services progress from having only one computer that could send emails, to having the ability to track where each officer is at any given time throughout their shift. During our conversation, Duraiappah shared what he thinks have been some of the most valuable pieces of technology brought into law enforcement over the last few years that he has served as chief, which included Next Generation 9-1-1, body-worn cameras, licence plate readers and artificial intelligence, among others.

This ongoing evolution reflects a commitment to serving communities effectively while adapting to the shifting landscape of public safety challenges.

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When looking at advancements in policing, Duraiappah and his team have focused on enhancing support for their members. This effort materializes in the form of their planned Operational Support Facility, which will accommodate vital infrastructure and technologies such as the NG9-1-1 centre, IT services, records services, community and emergency operations centre, and more. The new PRP facility is being constructed to meet net-zero carbon standards, making it one of the first police facilities in Canada to do so. Additionally, Division 41 of the Toronto Police Service has recently revealed plans to construct a net-zero station.

I had the opportunity to discuss this innovative project with key members, including PRP’s Deputy Chief Anthony Odoardi – Innovation and Technology, Executive Advisor Robert Shearer, Director Shawn Fauvelle – Facilities Management, and Anthony Fieldman – partner at DIALOG Design.

To conclude our conversation, Duraiappah shared his belief that there is a better, more efficient way for vendors and police leaders to connect and create new solutions for use in Canadian communities, and you can find his full remarks on page 10.

As always, please reach out to me at any time if you believe that there is a topic that you think we should be talking about, a new program that your police service has started, or an officer you think should be highlighted. I can be reached at bschroeder@annexbusienssmedia.com.

Until next time, happy reading and be well.