Premier, mayor voice support for decision to end police officers’ OT retail-security shifts

Winnipeg's Premier Wab Kinew and Mayor Scott Gillingham have expressed their support for the Winnipeg Police Service's decision to end police officers' overtime shifts providing retail security. Police Chief Gene Bowers informed officers about the change, citing challenges in filling key vacancies and the need to maintain service levels.

The operational decision is up to Chief Bowers, but Kinew emphasized the community's desire for police presence and reassurance. Gillingham stressed that front-line policing must be prioritized. The special duty work will be phased out, starting January 1, with a full exit by May 1. The decision does not apply to non-retail special duty.

The Police Association of Winnipeg, representing front-line officers, maintains its support for a stronger police presence in the community, despite the unilateral operational decision.