A recent survey conducted by Canada Pulse Insights on behalf of CityNews has revealed that the top concerns of Torontonians regarding policing in the city are gun violence and home invasions.
Gun violence was identified as the primary concern by 54% of Toronto residents, followed closely by home invasions at 46%, and carjackings or vehicle theft at 37%. In the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), 47% of respondents cited home invasions or robberies as their top worry, with vehicle thefts at 43% and gun violence at 42%.
Despite these concerns, the majority of those surveyed in both Toronto and the GTA expressed satisfaction with their local police chiefs and officers. Chief Myron Demkiw received a 62% approval rating in Toronto, while 72% of Toronto police officers were deemed to be doing a good job. In the GTA, local police chiefs received a 67% approval rating, with three in four residents believing frontline police officers are performing well.
However, residents in both regions expressed apprehension about police response times in emergencies, with 72% of Torontonians and 70% in the GTA fearing delays. Personal experiences with police response times varied, with 10% of Toronto residents and 67% of GTA residents rating the response times as great or good.
The survey also highlighted concerns about bail requirements and repeat offenders. A significant majority of respondents in Toronto (87%) and the GTA (90%) felt there were too many repeating violent offenders being granted bail. Furthermore, more than 90% of those surveyed agreed that individuals arrested for violent crimes while on bail should be detained until their trial concludes.
In terms of police resources, some residents felt that the budget should be increased to enhance effectiveness and community safety, while others believed that existing resources should be utilized more efficiently. Additionally, a large percentage of respondents in both Toronto and the GTA expressed feeling safe walking in their neighborhoods at night, but had concerns about violence on public transit.
Overall, the survey highlighted a range of opinions and concerns among residents of Toronto and the GTA regarding policing and crime in their communities.