Winnipeg police chief encouraged by city’s positive direction
Dealing with root causes behind crime key to lasting social change
WINNIPEG, MB—Just over a year after he was sworn in as chief of the Winnipeg Police Service, Devon Clunis says he is optimistic about the direction the city is heading.
"I see really great things happening for the city, and I see people coming together like never before," Clunis told ChristianWeek at the beginning of November. "And yes, there will be distractions, but if we collectively keep our eyes fixed on what this city can be, nothing can actually stop us."
Clunis says his aim when he became chief of police was to instigate a shift in the way police in Winnipeg approach their work. Rather than simply respond to crimes as they happen, Clunis wants the Police Service to address the social issues underpinning crime in Winnipeg.
During one of the 12 community forums Clunis participated in over the past year, a single parent told him that what the city needs are things like more parenting classes and more safe playgrounds for children.
"As a police service, we can be catalysts for bringing in those meaningful initiatives in the community," Clunis said. "I do believe that is a responsibility of a police organization, because that will lead ultimately to the prevention of crime and disorder in neighbourhoods."
A third-quarter report Clunis released at the beginning of November shows overall crime is down 15.3 per cent in the last quarter compared with the same period in 2012 and 25.3 per cent lower than the five-year average.
Dealing with the root causes of crime, and seeing people who perpetrate crimes as individuals who can be redeemed, is important, Clunis said.
He added that everyone is responsible for making the city safer.
"[We're] trying to build a strong sense of community within the entire city, with people recognizing that we all need to care about each other," Clunis said. "If we're going to change what we see in our city, it's going to take a concerted effort [from everyone]."
Jamil Mahmood, executive director of the Spence Neighbourhood Association (SNA), said that Clunis's message of crime prevention through social development is exciting.
"That message is super positive for us, and we're hoping to use that to make things happen in the community moving forward," Mahmood said.
He added that community engagement from the police over the past year has been "really positive" and the best he's seen during his eight years with the SNA.
"We've definitely seen a major improvement in the last year. If it continues like this, we'll be happy."
Clunis came under fire in October 2012 after comments he made to ChristianWeek made headlines across Canada. Clunis said that prayer would play a role in reducing violent crime in Winnipeg, and that God was involved in his appointment as chief of police.
Clunis said that looking back, he would not change a thing about the way the incident played out.
"I am glad that occurred when it did, because it set the tone and helped people fully understand who [I am] and that I'm going to stand my ground on what I believe. I believe in this community. My faith is a part of who I am, and I'm not going to give that up as a I serve the community."
He added that after his comments made national headlines, he received a flood of letters and emails from Winnipeg citizens showing him their support.
"I feel a great sense of trust from the community as we move forward," he said. "I know deep in my heart I'm only here to serve the people, and I think people see that."
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