Windsor many be a step closer to having a 'gangs and guns' policing initiative.
Mayor Drew Dilkens discussed the issue with Ontario's new Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Michael Tibollo.
Dilkens says the idea has mainly been played as a strategy to address gang-related crime and violence in Toronto, but he made it clear during that meeting that Windsor faces similar challenges.
"It was actually a very good conversation, it went on for about half an hour and I thought it was very positive," he says. "The minister is someone who is familiar with Windsor, he attended the University of Windsor Law School for three years back the 80's so he knows the community. And he appreciates the distinction with the City of Windsor versus other communities because of our border location"
Dilkens was encouraged by what he heard from the minister.
"I thought it was a very positive conversation and it sounds like the provincial government is working on some solutions that will benefit Toronto, but hopefully will also benefit communities like ours," says Dilkens. "As I understand there should be more forthcoming over the coming months."
There have been nine murders and multiple shootings in Windsor so far in 2018.
Dilkens says the city is taking action, but could use additional resources.
"When I see the number of incidents in our downtown core that are related to violent crime or certainly homicides, they're concerning to me as mayor," he says. "I don't think it's acceptable, I know our chief doesn't as well and the Windsor Police Service has responded and the board has responded."