SUMMERSIDE, PE - The City of Summerside has commissioned a Crime Prevention Needs Assessment to enhance public safety and support long term planning for our municipal police services. Chris Giacomantonio, a social policy researcher and criminologist, will lead the assessment, supported by Summerside Police Services and Municipal Administration.

 An essential focus of the Crime Prevention Needs Assessment is to evaluate and better understand the current and future policing needs of Summerside in relation to expected population growth and the prevalence of more complex policing issues being seen across our province. Additionally, the assessment will identify existing services and pinpoint gaps in the broader social service network, which extends beyond traditional policing, to support crime prevention efforts in the city.

 “I am very pleased to be working with the City of Summerside to develop a better understanding of crime currently occurring within the community,” said researcher Chris Giacomantonio. “In order to gain a better understanding of crime within the community, I will be engaging in consultations with members of Summerside Police Services senior administration, Mayor and City Councillors, provincial government, and various community groups.”

 The assessment will focus on issues including homelessness, mental health, and addictions, which contribute to a significant portion of the existing resources within the Police Service.

 “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is a top priority of the City of Summerside,” said Mayor Dan Kutcher of the City of Summerside. “We are taking action to get all the options on the table and all the tools into the hands of our Police Department to make sure our community is safe, and residents feel safe. This Crime Prevention Needs Assessment will provide additional insights into the real challenges facing our neighborhoods and our nation to find and implement targeted solutions. By taking a proactive approach, we fight crime that is here now and prevent it in the future, - that creates a safer, stronger city for everyone.”

 The result of the assessment is expected to make recommendations for new policies, programs, or resource allocations aimed at reducing crime and improving the overall quality of life for residents. It also reflects the city's proactive approach to crime prevention and public safety planning.

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The City of Summerside is located in Prince County, Prince Edward Island, Canada with the mindset of promoting and advancing its small city with big opportunities. Summerside offers a diverse market and skilled workforce and is a leader in sectors such as green energy, sport tourism and rapid economic growth. To learn more, please visit: www.summerside.ca or connect through Facebook, X, or Instagram

For further information or media inquires, please contact:

 JP Desrosiers

 Deputy CAO

 City of Summerside 

 [email protected]