Northumberland OPP lays out 2026 policing priorities
Photo courtesy of the Northumberland OPP
By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.
The Detachment Commander of the Northumberland Ontario Provincial Police said officers will focus its 2026 action plan on addressing: crime, roadways, waterways, and trails and community wellbeing and safety.
Newly installed commander, Inspector Mike Cavanaugh addressed Brighton Municipal Council Monday stating that fighting crime will be a priority next year.
“We’re looking at crime as one of the main priorities. We’re going to increase our effectiveness with benchmark crimes,” said Cavanaugh.
Traffic has been a concern for rural mayors particularly along Highway 401. If a collision occurs on the Highway that portion could be closed, with traffic being diverted through Brighton, Colborne and Grafton using the Emergency Detour Route (EDR) system.
Alnwick/Haldimand Township Mayor John Logal in May said rerouting traffic, especially larger vehicles, has created more wear and tear on municipal roads, a burden on smaller communities.
Brighton Mayor Brian Ostrander has expressed frustration with the EDR decisions as highway traffic flows through their downtown. Ostrander has brought this to the attention of the province, with little success. Cavanaugh said the OPP will examine its usage of EDR’s to lessen the impact on municipalities.
“How can we mitigate the use of EDR’s and its impact on services in the municipalities. That has been brought forward as a main concern for a number of municipalities that border the 401,” Cavanaugh stated.
Cavanaugh explained that the OPP will invest more into mental health services and youth engagement as it looks to enhance community wellbeing and safety. The Northumberland OPP operates with 85 officers in Brighton, Cobourg and Campbellford, yet police the entire county.
