WRPS getting less than half the needed funding for court security

The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) wants to go after Queen’s Park to get more funding for court security, with current funding levels at less than half of what’s needed.

A report coming to the police board at Wednesday’s meeting recommends that the board urge the Ministry of Solicitor General to do better than providing funding for only 46 per cent of this year’s $10.3 million costs.

The report points out that Ontario government funding through the Court Security and Prisoner Transportation grant program was reduced in 2025 by almost $600,000, down to a little more than $4.7 million.

Last August, the Ministry sent out instructions about enhancements to court security, including:

• A single entrance for the public to access the courthouse, or any premise where court proceedings are conducted
• Anyone attending the courthouse, or any premise where court proceedings are conducted, be actively screened using metal detectors or security wands
• A security presence on every floor of a courthouse, or any premise where court proceedings are conducted, with armed officers readily available to respond, when necessary

In the 2026 Budget, WRPS added two new sworn members and five new special constables just for court security work.

The report notes 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 drafted to be sent to Deputy Minister Mario Di Tommaso calling for more funding and consistent funding for court costs, and only needs the approval from the police board to be sent.