ByWard Market Sees Crime Drop as Police Presence Increases

Efforts to enhance safety in the ByWard Market area of Ottawa have shown promising results, with a notable decline in crime over the past year. Key initiatives, including the establishment of a new police outpost on Rideau Street and an increase in police visibility, have contributed to reduced calls for service and a steady drop in low-level crime.

The Ottawa Police Service, under the leadership of Chief Eric Stubbs, reported a significant decrease in various crime categories since the opening of the Neighbourhood Operations Centre (NOC) just over a year ago. The NOC, which launched in June 2024, serves as a coordination hub for police and community partners, aiming to address public safety and social issues in the heritage district.

The ByWard Market has historically faced challenges due to its high concentration of social services and vulnerable populations, alongside being a popular destination for tourists. Chief Stubbs acknowledged that while there have been positive trends, there remains substantial work to be done to ensure the area feels safe for both residents and visitors.

Positive Trends in Crime Statistics

According to data from the Ottawa Police Service, there has been a 7.8 percent decline in assaults in the ByWard Market from July 2024 to June 2025, compared to the previous year. Additionally, robbery charges fell by 30 percent, from 53 to 37 charges during the same timeframe. Break and enter charges also decreased significantly, dropping from 127 to 80, a decline of 37 percent.

Despite these encouraging figures, some categories of theft saw increases. The number of thefts over $5,000 rose to 18 from 14, while thefts under $5,000 increased by 7.2 percent, amounting to 519 cases in the same period. These mixed results sparked discussions about the overall safety perception in the area.

During a recent presentation to the city council, Suzanne Valiquet, vice-chair of the ByWard Market District Authority, noted a positive shift in the community’s feeling of safety since the NOC became operational. She reported that both businesses and residents have expressed a sense of improved security due to the increased police presence. People are reportedly more willing to engage with law enforcement, sharing information about suspicious activities.

Community Response and Ongoing Challenges

Despite the statistical improvements, Stephanie Plante, the Rideau-Vanier Councillor, cautioned against drawing overly optimistic conclusions from the data. She highlighted concerns raised by residents and local workers, who reported feeling unsafe and hesitant to contact police due to long response times. This feedback underscores the complexity of the situation, as many businesses are resorting to hiring private security.

Chief Stubbs recognized the need for continued efforts, stating, “There are certainly some signs of positive trends that we like, and there are others we want to jump on as well.” He emphasized the importance of visibility and engagement, noting that when officers are present in the area, it tends to reduce negative behaviors and enhance the overall feeling of safety among residents and visitors.

The policing hub is part of the Ottawa Police Service’s Community Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) strategy, initiated in May 2024. This strategy aims to address the root causes of crime by fostering collaboration among various community service providers. The Integrated Community Situation Table, which meets at the NOC, includes representatives from 30 organizations dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations.

“Everyone at that table should know most of the individuals in the vulnerable population,” Stubbs explained. “The plan is to get those individuals on a positive path, while also addressing those who engage in repeat criminal behaviors.”

The ByWard Market continues to be a focal point for police efforts, not only due to its popularity among tourists but also because of the rising number of individuals experiencing homelessness and other challenges. The area recorded over 22 million distinct visits in 2024, according to the ByWard Market District Authority.

As the police continue to adapt their strategies in response to community feedback, the focus remains on creating a safe environment for both residents and visitors. Chief Stubbs concluded, “It is important that it is an area that people feel safe in, and that is why we’re putting in the effort.”

With ongoing initiatives and community collaboration, the Ottawa Police Service aims to maintain the momentum of these positive trends while addressing the complexities of urban safety challenges.