Windsor Police Make 33 Arrests in Public Drug Use Response

Windsor police say they have responded to more than 1,200 calls involving open drug use in 2026, through efforts that combine enforcement with connections to health, housing and social supports. Officers have made 33 arrests related to public drug use so far this year, the service said.

The downtown efforts support the City of Windsor’s Strengthen the Core initiative and respond to concerns from residents, business owners and visitors about open drug use, public disorder and safety, police said.

Officers address reports of open drug use and related public-safety concerns, taking enforcement action where appropriate and working to connect people facing substance-use challenges or crisis with community supports. The arrests were made under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act, 2025.

Police said they seized illegal drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine, as well as pipes and needles. They also reported 560 referrals to health, housing and other community supports, noting that many people encountered through the work may need ongoing help.

Members of Windsor’s City Centre Patrol recently visited London police to learn about their open-air substance-use initiative and discuss strategies and training. London officers will visit Windsor in the coming weeks to continue the exchange, police said.

Chief Jason Crowley said the goal is to deter open drug use, address public disorder and disrupt drug trafficking while connecting people with support, not to criminalize addiction. Police said they will continue proactive enforcement while supporting longer-term pathways to care.

Residents can report non-emergency concerns at 519-258-6111 and should call 911 when there is an immediate threat to public safety. Affected people needing support can contact Victim Services of Windsor and Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Windsor Police Service Victim Assistance Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 7179.