“Abusive, aggressive” behaviour towards Clarington by-law officers on rise again
Published May 8, 2024 at 4:31 pm
Abusive and aggressive behaviour directed at municipal by-law officers has prompted Clarington to issue a warning that these kind of actions “will not be tolerated.”
“We’ve seen an increase in aggressive and abusive behaviour towards Municipal Law Enforcement Officers,” the statement from Clarington administration read. “These actions will not be tolerated and can result in serious legal consequences. Please show respect and kindness to officers.”
Clarington released a similar statement a year ago when the municipality reported an increase in the amount of “aggressive and potentially dangerous behaviour” toward its by-law officers.
Clarington’s Municipal Law Enforcement officers play an important role in community, investigating and enforcing municipal by-laws such as parking, property standards, zoning, signs, noise and licensing issues, among other duties.
An increase in instances of “aggressive, inappropriate and abusive behaviour” towards the by-law officers has already resulted in legal consequences, though the municipality has not released any details of the abuse.
“Municipal Law Enforcement officers and staff are committed to educating the community about local by-laws and resident responsibilities,” the statement continued. “Officers follow the Municipal Law Enforcement policy to ensure a transparent, consistent, fair, unbiased, and effective process for enforcement. It’s about protecting and enhancing community safety while ensuring the local standards we have for our community are upheld.”
