North Bay Police Report Significant Drop in Use of Force Incidents

The North Bay Police Service has reported a notable decrease in “Use of Force” incidents, filing just 25 reports in 2025. This figure represents a significant reduction from the previous year, when 43 reports were submitted. Acting Deputy Police Chief Jeff Warner expressed satisfaction with these numbers, attributing the decline to the effectiveness of their proactive de-escalation training programs.

According to Warner, the reports are generated when interactions meet specific criteria outlined in the Canadian Safety and Policing Act. He emphasized that the low number of reports, relative to the over 30,000 public interactions annually, suggests that the training and de-escalation techniques employed by the force are yielding positive results. “It shows that their training is working, their de-escalation techniques are working,” said Warner.

Context of Use of Force Incidents

The reduction in reports highlights the professionalism and patience of the officers, according to Warner. He stated that he believes the use of force was justified in all 25 incidents recorded in 2025. Chief Daryl Longworth has previously noted that although the use of force is rare, it is an occasional necessity in a community of North Bay’s size. “Some people just don’t want to comply with what we’re trying to get them to do for the interests of community safety,” Longworth explained.

Longworth’s comments underscore the reality that officers often confront actively resistant individuals or situations where a weapon is displayed or perceived. “Every time one of our officers uses force, they were dealing with an actively resistant person,” he added, affirming that the officers acted appropriately in these challenging circumstances.

The North Bay Police Service’s data reflects a broader trend in policing, where departments are increasingly focusing on de-escalation strategies to reduce the need for forceful interventions. By prioritizing training that emphasizes communication and conflict resolution, the North Bay Police aim to foster a safer environment for both officers and the community.

As the police service continues to evaluate its practices, the 2025 statistics provide a promising outlook on the effectiveness of its training initiatives. The figures not only demonstrate a commitment to community safety but also reflect the efforts of officers to engage with the public in a constructive manner.

In summary, the North Bay Police Service’s reduction in “Use of Force” incidents from 43 in 2024 to 25 in 2025 signals a positive shift in policing practices, emphasizing the importance of training and effective communication in law enforcement.