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The Halton Regional Police Board has approved the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) decision to opt out of the federal Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program.
The move aligns HRPS with other Ontario services, including the Ontario Provincial Police, York Regional Police and the Toronto Police Service, which have also chosen not to participate. The Board cited uncertainty around local implementation, limited clarity on management systems and post-amnesty enforcement expectations, as well as the significant resources required for participation.
HRPS Chief Stephen Tanner says the service will instead focus on priorities such as addressing serious violent crime and targeting repeat offenders, while continuing proactive enforcement and targeted investigations.
Residents who wish to surrender prohibited firearms can do so through HRPS’ existing Firearms and Weapons Amnesty Program by arranging a pick-up here. Police remind residents not to transport firearms or weapons to stations or headquarters.
