The province is spending nearly $650,000 to improve the safety of Winnipeggers.
The funds will come from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund and be used in various initiatives that enhance officer safety and keep Winnipeggers safe.
“As Winnipeggers, we all deserve to feel safe in our community,” said Justice Minister Matt Wiebe. “The Winnipeg Police Service plays a vital role in protecting our community and the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund has been an invaluable tool to support local efforts to fight crime.”
Around $415,000 will be used to purchase new equipment for the Winnipeg Police Service including a protective rescue van. Another $100,000 will be put towards mental health and trauma-informed training for its members and $30,000 will support the WPS engagement with Indigenous leadership and community on forming an Indigenous advisory council, to provide guidance and ensure culturally appropriate, trauma-informed practices moving forward.
“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of providing law enforcement additional tools to help ensure every officer can safely go home to their families every night,” said Wiebe. “This van will also help protect victims and bystanders in dangerous, high-risk situations.”
The funding will be provided through the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund, which uses the proceeds of the sale of seized criminal property to protect Manitoba families and enhance public safety.