The Victoria Police Department is re-organizing staff in the face of a funding shortfall in efforts to maintain services and call response on the front-lines. Chief Constable Del Manak confirms 6 officers will be redeployed to front-line positions in the Patrol & the alternative response unit.
The changes involve 3 school liaison officers, 1 intelligence officer, a Reserve Program Coordinator & a beat officer.
Manak says it was a difficult decision as it means an end to the School Liasion Officer positions in Victoria and Esquimalt which play an important role in our schools.
The Chief notes that despite increased demands placed on officers by a growing population VicPD has not received an increase in police officers for 8 years.
Despite asking for an increase in its 2018 budget the request was denied by Esquimalt council twice, as councillors couldn't see how providing their share of the funds -- just over $40-thousand -- would improve police services in their municipality.
Manak is hoping the reassignments will be temporary until funding for additional officers can be secured.