The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) and the Durham Regional Police Service Board (DRPSB) have reviewed the federal Assault‑Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP) and have decided not to participate at this time. Significant gaps remain within the program, including insufficient operational clarity and resources to support safe and effective implementation.
Violent crime involving illicit firearms continues to be a major concern in Durham Region and across Canada. With limited resources and increased public safety demands, DRPS must focus on initiatives that have the greatest impact on community safety—reducing violent crime, targeting repeat offenders, and removing illegal firearms from our streets.
Public safety remains our top priority. We acknowledge the federal government’s commitment to addressing gun violence and will continue working with them, the Province of Ontario, and our community partners to advance efforts aimed at combating illicit firearms.