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The Manitoba government is providing $647,000 to the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) to enhance public safety and improve officer safety from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced Tuesday.
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Approximately $415,000 of the funding will go toward new equipment for the police, including a protective rescue van intended to safeguard officers, victims, and bystanders in high-risk situations. Minister Wiebe stressed the importance of providing police with the necessary tools to ensure the safety of both law enforcement and the public.
Wiebe also emphasized the importance of safety for all Winnipeggers and highlighted the role of WPS in protecting the community. He noted that the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund, which uses proceeds from the sale of seized criminal property, has been a critical resource for supporting local crime-fighting efforts.
WPS Superintendent Brian Miln said the new rescue vehicle will enhance the protection available to specially trained intervention teams who face increasing levels of firearm violence.
The WPS will also receive $100,000 for mental health and trauma-informed training for its members. An additional $30,000 will be directed towards engaging with Indigenous leaders and communities to form an Indigenous advisory council, providing culturally sensitive guidance to the police.
The remaining funds will be allocated to other WPS programs, priorities, and equipment. The Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund is used to enhance public safety, support crime prevention, and assist victims of crime across Manitoba, according to the Justice Minister.
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