The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is comprised of numerous divisions, all working in conjunction to serve Sault Ste. Marie and Prince Township. Click on a Service Division below to learn more.
The Corporate Development & Emergency Management division is overseen by an Inspector. This area is comprised of Audits & Inspections, our Auxiliary Unit, Incident Command, our Police Liaison Team, the Professional Standards Bureau, Training Services (Reintegration), Uniform Recruitment, and Wellness Development.
Regular audits and inspections of police facilities are the responsibility of the Inspector – Corporate Development & Emergency Management. This often includes assigning a trained member to conduct audits and inspections of designated areas of Sault Police facilities to ensure they meet guidelines and are accessible for all members.
Being an Auxiliary member of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is an exciting and fulfilling volunteer position. Auxiliary Constables support Sault Police in many ways, such as assisting with community festivals, parades, street parties, and sporting events.
Through their volunteer work, Auxiliary members are able to gain unique insight into the world of policing. Auxiliaries are able to join our sworn members on ride-alongs and see what the day-to-day life of an officer is like first-hand.
If you’re interested in a career in policing, becoming an Auxiliary Constable is a great way to see if it’s the right career path for you. In fact, many of our sworn officers began their career as Auxiliary Constables!
On major calls for service, an Incident Commander is appointed to oversee and coordinate the overall response by members of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. The Incident Commander is responsible for assessing the situation, setting priorities, and ensuring that the response is managed in a structured and effective manner. This role provides clear leadership and direction during complex or high-risk incidents.
The Incident Commander establishes defined roles and responsibilities for all essential personnel involved, ensuring resources are deployed appropriately and communication remains clear. This coordinated approach supports effective decision-making during major crimes, public safety emergencies, and large-scale events, while promoting the safety of members, partner agencies, and the public.
The Police Liaison Team (PLT) is a key part of police planning and response to major events and conflict situations. PLT officers are focused on proactive relationship building to assist in resolving potential issues at large gatherings.
PLT officers work to establish and maintain open and transparent lines of communication with all stakeholders who might be affected, directly or indirectly, by major events. By using effective negotiation and mediation techniques, PLT intervention is a useful way to communicate and avoid conflict.
- PLT officers work with individuals or groups to help facilitate peaceful events and are a great resource for those planning on attending an event.
- Their role is to dialogue and work with all of those affected by an event.
Groups planning to voice their opinions during an event are encouraged to contact the SSMPS Police Liaison Team to work with the police to plan a safe event within the legal framework.
The Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) is responsible for investigating complaints made about a member, service or policy of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service (SSMPS). A Staff Sergeant oversees all of these investigations and reports directly to the Deputy Chief of Police.
PSB investigations of this type generally arise from one of three sources:
- The Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA) receives, manages and oversees all complaints about police in Ontario. At times, it will request the PSB to investigate a complaint it has received regarding a SSMPS member, or a complaint about a SSMPS policy or service. For more information, visit the LECA website.
- Internal complaint or Chief’s Complaint – this is a complaint that is initiated by the chief. Complaints can range from ones related to allegations of misconduct during the execution of police duties, to employment-related complaints such as harassment or the conduct of members off-duty.
- Special Investigations Unit (SIU) – The PSB will assist the SIU with its initial investigation by providing the requested disclosure and scheduling required interviews. Once the SIU has completed its investigation into an incident in which it invoked its mandate, the PSB conducts an investigation to determine if there was any misconduct by the involved member or if there were any procedural breaches.
The majority of PSB investigations focus on allegations of misconduct, as defined by the Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA) and the police Code of Conduct defined in Ontario Regulations 407/23 and 410/23. Examples of misconduct include discreditable conduct, insubordination, neglect of duty and unlawful, or unnecessary exercise of authority.
SSMPS civilian members are also accountable for their behaviour and are subject to investigations by the PSB for alleged breaches of conduct.
Notice of hearings involving SSMPS officers are posted on the disciplinary hearing page. For information on hearings, please visit our Disciplinary Hearings page.
Voice a Concern
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service welcomes anyone with a concern to please contact the on duty Staff Sergeant by calling 705-949-6300. The Professional Standards Bureau is responsible for ensuring the professional conduct of all members of the service. Professional Standards supports the high level of professionalism expected of our members through compliance of the Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA), internal policies, conduct, ethics and integrity.
In addition, Professional Standards works with the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA) to investigate complaints made by the public and find resolutions to these complaints. Through this unit Sault Police is able to maintain the level of standards expected of our members which in turns allows the community to build a strong confidence in their police service. To file an official complaint you can do so here. For more information on what warrants an official complaint against the Service please visit the LECA website.
Training Services is dedicated to providing relevant, consistent, timely and cost-effective training to sworn and civilian members to meet or exceed legislated standards. The unit develops, delivers, and evaluates training programs to fulfil both organizational and individual learning and developmental needs.
In addition to the use of force curriculum required to be a sworn member, Training Services is also responsible for the orientation and internal training of new recruits, experienced (lateral transfer) officers, Auxiliary Members, and Special Constables hired by the Service.
Members of Training Services are also trained to support the reintegration of members into the workplace. Reintegration helps members safely and gradually return to duty following critical incidents, injuries, or extended leave. This support is tailored, confidential, and often peer-driven, with a focus on rebuilding confidence through practical, job-related activities. Programs are personalized and member-led, addressing individual needs to support a successful return to work.
The Uniform Recruitment division is responsible for recruiting, interviewing, and conducting background investigations for uniform positions. This includes Experienced Officers, Recruit Constables, Special Constables, and Auxiliary Constables. Uniform Recruitment is supported by Human Resources, which includes the part-time Background Investigators/Recruiters.
Uniform Recruitment works alongside Human Resources to review all applications to ensure applicants meet the criteria necessary to become a police officer with the Sault Police. Uniform Recruitment conducts interviews with applicants, completes background investigations and liaises with psychologists and medical doctors to ensure the application process is efficient and professional.
To learn more about the Uniform Recruitment team, click here.
To learn more about how to become a member of our Service please visit the Career section of our website or contact the Sergeant of Uniform Recruitment via email at uniformrecruitment@ssmps.org or by phone: 705-949-6300 ext. 238.
The wellness of members of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is a priority. To support member wellness, the Service established a Wellness Committee made up of members from various areas of the organization. The committee’s mandate is to explore and promote opportunities that enhance education, awareness, and access to mental and physical well-being resources for all members.
The Wellness Committee has secured a key partnership with Warrior Health, providing members and their families with access to a wide range of wellness providers and programs. Members are encouraged to use these resources whenever needed.
The Executive Services division is comprised of Corporate Communications, Planning, & Research (EDI), the Executive Administrative Assistant for the Office of the Chief of Police, and Finance Services. Executive Services is comprised entirely of civilian members. The heads of these areas report to the Chief of Police.
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service’s Corporate Communications team is responsible for internal and external communications, including managing media relations, issuing media releases, and developing content for social media and the web. The team ensures timely, accurate, and engaging communication both internally and with the public and media. The manager is also responsible maintaining strong relationships with community partners as part of the service’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion efforts, as well as writing and updating policy in collaboration with other divisions.
By promoting transparency and building trust, Corporate Communications plays a key role in highlighting community safety initiatives, sharing important updates, and supporting the Service’s mission, vision, and values.
The Executive Administrative Assistant provides administrative support to the Chief of Police, Deputy Chief and the Senior Management team as required. This includes liaising with the Police Service Board, political representatives and community leaders regarding the availability of the Chief and Deputy for important events and coordinating crucial meetings among local stakeholders.
Finance Services is comprised of a manager, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. Finance Services advises the Chief of Police on spending trends, including providing projection reports on the budget. This area also plays a crucial role in any grant applications and the procurement of services.
Our Human Resources division is responsible for recruiting, interviewing, and conducting background investigations for all new civilian hires of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. Our part-time Background Investigators/Recruiters also assist with Uniform Recruitment.
To learn more about the Human Resources team, click here.
To learn more about how to become a member of our Service, please visit our Careers page or contact our HR team at humanresources@ssmps.org.
Investigation Services is responsible for investigating serious crimes, including homicides, sexual assaults, street-level and organized crime, along with a wide range of other incidents.
Specially trained detectives—and in some cases, civilians—work within specialized units under the Investigation Services umbrella. These teams collaborate to uncover criminal activity, conduct thorough investigations, and protect vulnerable members of our community, such as children and older adults.
Our officers use advanced techniques including forensic identification, technological analysis, intelligence gathering, and joint-force operations with other agencies to ensure investigations are carried out effectively.
To learn more about each subdivision of Investigation Services, expand the topics below.
Crime Suppression Unit & Drug Enforcement Unit
The Crime Suppression Unit (CSU) and Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) work cooperatively to target drug trafficking, human trafficking, biker crime, and other organized crime within our community. These units work on special projects to help target street-level crimes while also taking part in joint enforcement projects with other agencies across the province.
Officers in these units investigate criminal activity based on crime trends and intelligence information. They will apprehend wanted individuals and provide services directly related to the prevention of crime. These units work under the umbrella of Investigation Services and are specifically selected based on their experience, education, and training.
Forensic Identification Unit
The Forensic Identification Unit, made up of both police officers and civilian specialists, is responsible for recording, collecting, locating, and examining evidence at crime scenes. Their expertise supports investigations into a wide range of incidents, including break and enters, motor vehicle collisions, homicides, assaults, and more.
Evidence collection can range from taking photographs to advanced techniques such as using a digital 3D scanner to document a scene, swabbing for blood evidence, developing fingerprints with powders or chemicals, or collecting debris from collisions and fires.
All members of this unit complete an intensive nine-week training program and are accredited through the Ontario Police College or the Canadian Police College.
Fraud/Elder Investigations
Fraud/Elder Investigations investigates complex financial crimes reported to the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service and works closely with banks, credit card companies, and other financial institutions. In addition to investigations, the unit also plays an important role in educating the public on how to protect themselves from fraud.
The detective assigned to this unit also serves as the Service’s Elder Abuse Coordinator. In this role, the detective investigates financial crimes against seniors, nursing home and senior care-related complaints, and potential offences related to Powers of Attorney. The unit also works proactively by delivering educational presentations to seniors across Sault Ste. Marie and Prince Township.
To request a presentation by the officer in the Fraud Unit please contact us here.
For more information on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and scams, click here.
Intimate Partner Violence (SOR/ViCLAS)
The Intimate Partner Violence Unit is dedicated to reviewing all reports of violence that occur in relationships with an intimate partner. This investigation and review takes place regardless of whether or not a criminal charge has been laid and this process is governed by a strict mandate.
The Unit works with community partners to ensure victims have access to vital services that can help end the destructive cycle of intimate partner violence.
For information and resources on family and intimate partner violence, click here.
Major Case Management
Major Case Management falls under the umbrella of Investigation Services and utilizes a standardized methodology for investigating criminal events such as homicides, sexual assaults and other violent crimes.
When a major crime has been determined to have taken place, Investigation Services moves into action, establishing a command triangle that consists of the Major Case Management role, Primary Investigator, and File Coordinator.
Major Case Management combines specialized training and investigative techniques to not only assist in solving a crime but to process a large volume of information while also analysing potential links to other crimes.
Statistical Analysis Unit
Information coming soon
Technological Crime Unit
The Technological Crime Unit consists of detectives with highly specialized knowledge. These officers examine digital devices to determine if they have been used in any capacity related to a crime. The unit provides forensic analysis of technology with a primary focus on combating child pornography and the exploitation of children on the internet.
Online Child Abuse and Exploitation
If you have information about the online sexual abuse or exploitation of a child, have come across child sexual abuse material, or are concerned a child/youth is being victimized online, click here to report information to Cybertip.ca
For more information about how to protect your children online, please visit the Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
Online Safety
For tips and resources related to staying safe online, click here.
The Patrol Services Unit is the backbone of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. It is our largest and most visible unit, with members serving the community every day.
Canine Unit
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service Canine Unit was established in 1998 and currently has one handler and two canines. Constable Dan Turco currently works with Hektor and Red.
Hektor, a Belgian Malinois, is a Police Service Dog (PSD). He specializes in suspect apprehension and sniffing out drugs, guns, and other evidence. He can look for missing people, but they must remain on a leash.
Red, a Fox Red Labrador, is trained in search and rescue (SAR) and human remains detection (HRD). Red wears a GPS collar and can assist in searches off-leash. When he finds a missing person or human remains, he is trained to stay with them and bark to alert his handler.
Police Service Dogs are chosen for their physical ability, strength, and intelligence. A strong temperament is very important as these dogs are often expected to perform in stressful situations. Police Service Dogs are trained in tracking, searching for missing persons, area and building searches, searching for evidence, suspect apprehension and detection of narcotics and firearms. Our Canine Unit is on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Canine Unit is part of Patrol Services and works closely with the Emergency Services Unit (ESU) and responds to calls for service similar to uniform patrol officers. In addition, the Canine Unit will assist in as many priority calls as their availability will permit including alarms, suspicious persons, warrant execution, and all instances in which canine support has been requested.
While these are highly trained and assertive animals, they are able to interact with the public. The Canine Unit attends many public functions and school presentations each year to educate our community on the capabilities and importance of these highly-trained canines.
Central Support Bureau (CSB)
The Central Support Bureau (CSB) was created to enhance customer service for our community. Officers in this unit provide a variety of services, including monitoring and investigating incidents reported through our Online Reporting system, managing the Bicycle Registration program, and overseeing the Wandering and Vulnerable Person Registry.
The CSB also includes our Community Safety Officer, Elementary School Liaison Officer, and High School Liaison Officer, who work directly with the public to support safety and education initiatives.
Community Safety Officer
The Community Safety Officer builds strong relationships with community groups and partner agencies to enhance public safety. They work closely with City of Sault Ste. Marie by-law officers and other enforcement agencies as part of the Integrated Municipal Enforcement Team (IMET). (Read more about IMET in another section.)
This officer also plays a key role in leading proactive public safety initiatives across the community.
Elementary School Liaison Officer
In September of 2025, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service announced a renewed partnership with the Algoma District School Board (ADSB) and the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board (HSCDSB) which brought the return of a full-time, uniformed Elementary School Liaison Officer to local elementary schools.
The Elementary School Liaison Officer is shared between 17 ADSB and 16 HSCDSB elementary schools, ensuring students from across the region benefit from the officer’s presence and support.
The focus of the Elementary School Liaison Officer is on education, awareness, and building positive relationships within the school communities. Through responding to incidents involving students, delivering presentations, participating in school activities, and informal interactions, the officer works to support students’ safety and wellbeing, while also promoting a deeper understanding of the role of police in our community.
High School Liaison Officer
The High School Liaison Officer is shared between four ADSB high and alternative schools and one HSCDSB high school, ensuring students from across the region benefit from the officer’s presence and support. The position is jointly funded by ADSB, HSCDSB, and the SSMPS, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering safe and welcoming environments for all students.
The focus of the High School Liaison Officer is on education, awareness, and building positive relationships within the school communities. Through responding to incidents involving students, participation in school activities, and informal interactions, the officer works to support students’ safety and wellbeing, while also promoting a deeper understanding of the role of police in our community.
Community Patrol
Community Patrol is the most visible unit of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service, made up of many of our frontline officers. Our cruisers are a familiar sight throughout Sault Ste. Marie and Prince Township every day.
The unit is organized into four platoons, each with about 15 sworn officers. Every platoon is led by a Staff Sergeant and includes at least one Sergeant. These officers are often the first to respond to calls for service, providing immediate assistance to the community.
Division 2 Unit
Comprised of six constables and a sergeant, the Division 2 Unit is tasked with a range of duties including bicycle patrol, beat patrol, targeted patrol, community engagement, crime prevention, and addressing other issues impacting downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
Emergency Services Unit (ESU)
Formed in 1998, the Emergency Services Unit (ESU) is a specialized police team trained to manage situations involving a heightened risk of violence.
Assigned to Patrol Services, ESU members carry out regular policing duties when not deployed to high-risk incidents. Their mandate includes arresting violent or armed suspects, executing search warrants, responding to barricaded persons and hostage situations, providing high-risk security details, supporting canine operations, and ensuring the safe resolution of dangerous situations for both the public and police personnel.
ESU officers receive advanced training in areas such as containment, de-escalation, explosive disposal, less-lethal operations, hostage rescue, and canine support.
Integrated Municipal Enforcement Team (IMET)
The Integrated Municipal Enforcement Team (IMET) brings together enforcement partners including Police, Fire, and City By-law officers to address neglected properties that pose risks to tenants and community members. These properties are often linked to criminal activity and drug use.
IMET works to clean up, secure, and prevent unlawful entry at such locations, improving safety for the surrounding community. The team is supported by partner agencies such as the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board (DSSMSSAB), Algoma Public Health, and others as needed.
Mobile Crisis Rapid Response Team (MCRRT)
The MCRRT is a partnership between specially trained police officers and Sault Area Hospital (SAH) Crisis Services Clinicians, including registered psychiatric nurses and social workers. Together, the team responds to individuals in the community who are experiencing mental illness and/or emotional distress.
The goal of the MCRRT is to stabilize crises, reduce the likelihood of future incidents, and connect individuals with the knowledge, skills, and supports they need through referrals to partner agencies.
When there are significant concerns for an individual’s safety or wellness, officers can act under Ontario’s Mental Health Act to apprehend the person and transport them to hospital for further psychiatric evaluation.
The team provides timely assessments and effective responses in the community. Ongoing follow-up and support can also be offered by a Transitional Case Manager (TCM), who helps bridge individuals to services, divert them from hospital or the criminal justice system, set goals, and create personalized care plans.
Traffic Services
Traffic Services is comprised of one Sergeant and three Constables who investigate motor vehicle collisions not eligible to be reported at the Collision Reporting Centre (CRC). All members are trained Technical Traffic Collision Investigators (TTCI) and Collision Reconstruction Investigators, with specialized training from the Toronto Police College.
To support investigations, officers use advanced tools such as a GPS rover total station, 3D laser scanner, and Crash Data Recorder to map and analyze major injury and fatal collision scenes.
In addition to investigations, Traffic Services is responsible for specialized enforcement, including speed enforcement, seat belt checks, and distracted driving. The unit also coordinates the RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) program, supported by provincial government funding.
Given Northern Ontario’s diverse terrain, Traffic Services uses a variety of specialty vehicles to provide enforcement both on and off road. Officers operate police motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles for emergency response and enforcement under the Highway Traffic Act, Off-Road Vehicles Act, and Motorized Snow Vehicle Act.
Marine Unit
Traffic Services officers also receive marine training and, in collaboration with the Anishinabek Police Service and other law enforcement partners, patrol approximately 75 kilometres of shoreline around Sault Ste. Marie and Prince Township.
RPAS
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service uses Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), commonly referred to as drones, to assist officers during a variety of calls for service, including:
- Collision scene reconstruction
- Crime scene documentation and evidence collection
- Searches for missing persons
All RPAS pilots receive extensive training. The use of RPAS enhances response efficiency during critical incidents and serves as a valuable tool in supporting public safety.
The Support Services Division plays a vital role in the daily operations of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. Many of our civilian personnel work within this division, providing essential support that allows our frontline officers to focus on serving and protecting the community.
Building & Fleet Management
The Building and Fleet Management team ensures the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service operates smoothly and without interruption. They coordinate the maintenance and repair of all police vehicles, handling everything from routine servicing like oil changes and tire replacements to unexpected mechanical issues that keep the fleet safe and road-ready.
In addition to vehicle care, the team oversees the upkeep of police facilities. This includes property maintenance, minor building repairs, and ensuring critical systems—such as backup power supplies—are always operational.
Through their work, Building and Fleet Management provides essential support that allows officers to focus on policing, while ensuring the Service’s facilities and fleet remain safe, functional, and well-maintained.
Central Emergency Reporting Bureau (CERB)
The Central Emergency Reporting Bureau (CERB) is often the first point of contact for members of the community in need of assistance. Our 911 Communicators answer calls for service and dispatch officers to support the community.
Civilian members working in CERB are assigned to one of four platoons and work closely with officers in Patrol Services to serve the community each day.
Court Services & Security
The Sault Police work closely with the local Crown’s office and courthouse personnel to best serve the community. When laying charges, officers must provide the Crown’s office with the strongest possible case to ensure a successful prosecution. To support this process, responsibilities are divided into two areas: the courthouse and the court office.
Courthouse
At the courthouse, both full-time and part-time Special Constables are responsible for prisoner escorts, courthouse security, the housing and supervision of prisoners, the collection and handling of court documents, and communication with court office clerks. They also transport prisoners and accused individuals to and from the Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre (ATRC), and, on occasion, to the Provincial Offences Court at the Civic Centre.
Court Office
Court Clerks prepare essential court documents, including informations, warrants, Crown briefs, subpoenas, summonses, and other paperwork required by Crown Attorneys, Justices, Justices of the Peace, and Bail Officers. They ensure that every accused person and their respective charges are entered onto a court docket by completing all documentation accurately and on time. Clerks also work closely with the Crown Attorney’s office. Their duties require strong knowledge of the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Provincial Offences Act.
Digital Evidence Management System (DEMS) Unit
Members of the DEMS Unit are responsible for managing and redacting digital evidence to support investigations and prepare evidence for court proceedings – a role which is increasingly vital with the use of In-Car Camera Systems and Body-Worn Cameras.
Information Services
This area of the Service is responsible for the maintenance of data of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service’s records management system, records contributed to the Canadian Police Information Centre, information gathering, processing, and dissemination. Information Services is also responsible for the administration of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Assistance with information for insurance purposes, criminal record searches, and reception for the Police Service are handled by members of Information Services.
Freedom of Information and Release of Information
Under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), freedom of information and the release of information are guided by a balance between public access and the protection of individual privacy.
The role of these functions is to ensure transparency and accountability by administering a process that allows members of the public to request access to information related to the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. This responsibility includes carefully balancing the public’s right of access with the protection of personal information and confidentiality when responding to Freedom of Information (FOI) and Release of Information (ROI) requests.
Information Technology (IT)
The Information Technology (IT) team supports the growing technological needs of the Sault Police, ensuring that computer systems, networks, and digital resources operate smoothly and securely.
IT members manage hardware and software, troubleshoot technical issues, and provide help desk support so daily operations run without interruption. They also play a critical role in data management and cybersecurity, protecting sensitive information and preventing unauthorized access.
In addition, the IT team implements new technologies, maintains system updates, and trains staff on digital tools to improve efficiency and support the Service’s commitment to innovation.
Property & Exhibits
Property & Exhibits is responsible for cataloguing and securely storing all exhibits and found property collected by the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service.
When contacting Property & Exhibits, please have your occurrence number available. Members of the public are asked to call ahead before attending the office to confirm whether their property can be released and to discuss what documentation will be required.
Valid photo identification is required for the release of any property held by the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service.
Organization Chart
Our Organization Chart shows the reporting structure of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service.
