Police

In Canada, the police enforce the law. Learn more about police services in Ontario, and what happens if you are arrested or detained.

Police Basics

What do the police do?
In Canada, the police are separate from government and from the military. In Ontario, police services must include crime prevention, law enforcement, assistance to victims of crime, public order maintenance, and emergency response.
What can I do if I was seriously injured by the police?
How to report police brutality and abuse.
How can I get help from the police?
If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1. If it is not an emergency, use the police non-emergency phone number.
Who governs the police?
Police are accountable to the public and are governed by municipal, provincial, and federal government agencies.
What are the Rules for Using and Buying Marijuana in Ontario?
All the facts you need to know about using and buying marijuana in Ontario, and what to do if you're travelling outside of Canada.
Police Powers: Stops and Searches
This booklet sets out the rights of a person who is stopped, questioned, searched, arrested, or detained by the police. It also explains when the police can enter or search someone’s home.

How can I get help in an emergency?
Call 9-1-1 if you have a life-threatening emergency. The 911 operator can get an interpreter for you, if you need one.
Where can I find a hospital in my area?
If you have a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. If you need medical help quickly, but it is not an emergency, you may want to go to a hospital.
How can I get help from the police?
If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1. If it is not an emergency, use the police non-emergency phone number.

Criminal Charges in Canada and Your Immigration Status
If you are charged with a crime in Canada, and you are not a Canadian citizen, what the court decides may affect your immigration status. This fact sheet was produced by Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO).
What do I do if the police arrest me?
The police cannot arrest or detain you without following very strict rules.
Who governs the police?
Police are accountable to the public and are governed by municipal, provincial, and federal government agencies.