WRPS Seeks More Funding for Court Security in Ontario

The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) is reaching out to Queen’s Park for increased funding for court security, as current financial support falls below half of what’s required.

A report set to be presented at Wednesday’s police board meeting suggests that the board encourage the Ministry of Solicitor General to provide more than just the 46 per cent funding of this year’s $10.3 million costs.

This report highlights that Ontario government funding from the Court Security and Prisoner Transportation grant program was cut by nearly $600,000 in 2025, bringing it down to just over $4.7 million.

Last August, the Ministry issued guidelines regarding improvements to court security, which included:

• A single entrance for the public to access the courthouse or any location where court proceedings take place
• Active screening for anyone attending the courthouse or any site where court proceedings occur, using metal detectors or security wands
• A visible security presence on every floor of a courthouse or any venue where court activities are held, with armed officers available to respond if needed

In its 2026 Budget, WRPS added two new sworn officers and five special constables specifically focused on court security duties.

The report mentions that “in-person volumes at the Region’s Courthouses now exceed pre-pandemic levels. Recently, the Courthouse has experienced an increase in violent outbursts and escalated behaviour from accused persons and members of the public.”

A letter has already been prepared to send to Deputy Minister Mario Di Tommaso requesting additional funding and consistent support for court costs; it just needs approval from the police board before being sent off.

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