Ontario Regulation 87/24 outlines training requirements for police officers and special constables in Ontario under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019. The regulation aims to ensure that law enforcement personnel are adequately trained to handle various responsibilities effectively, with a strong emphasis on mental health crisis intervention and use of force protocols.

The regulation begins with several key definitions, including terms such as “certified trainer,” “College” (referring to the Ontario Police College), and “special constable (Niagara Parks).” The transition date, set for April 1, 2024, is crucial as it marks when new training requirements take effect. Importantly, if an individual has completed training before this date, they are not required to redo the training to meet the new standards.

Part II of the regulation outlines specific training requirements for police officers. To be appointed as a police officer, an individual must successfully complete the “Basic Constable Training Program” delivered by the Ontario Police College. However, exemptions are available for those who have completed equivalent training in Canada or demonstrated substantially equivalent skills, coupled with recent completion of a “Use of Force Requalification” course. Additionally, by the second anniversary of the transition date, all police officers must complete the “Mental Health Crisis Response (MHCR) Education and Applied Training” program. This program can be provided by specific universities or certified trainers, and after initial training, officers are required to complete ongoing training within 12 months to ensure they remain updated on mental health crisis intervention techniques.

Part III specifies the training requirements for special constables. Similar to police officers, special constables must complete a specific training program before their appointment. There are exemptions for those who have undergone equivalent training or possess comparable qualifications. The special constables employed by the Niagara Parks Commission have unique provisions tailored to their roles.

Part IV focuses on use of force and weapons training for both police officers and special constables. All personnel must complete the “Use of Force Requalification” course annually. Special considerations are given to those authorized to use conducted energy weapons, requiring them to undergo specific operator training before usage. Annual requalification is also required for those who have completed this training. Police officers performing community patrol functions and those who may need to respond to active threat situations must successfully complete a “Carbine Operator” course within specified timeframes based on their appointment date.

By emphasizing mental health crisis response and ongoing skill development in the use of force, the regulation seeks to improve the effectiveness and safety of law enforcement practices in the province. This structured approach aims to ensure that law enforcement personnel are well-equipped to respond to a wide array of challenges in their roles.

Ontario (87/24) April 6, 2024