City Council Stands Steadfast with Owen Sound Police Services to Resolve Recent Homicide in River District

Posted on Wednesday August 30, 2023

 

This has been a painful week for the entire city. Mayor Boddy and Council recognize and thank our greater Owen Sound community, who have come together and shown such strong support for each other in light of the recent assault and loss of life of a beloved member of our community, Sharif Rahman, that occurred in the heart of our City, the River District.

Council has heard from many citizens and business owners that they are seeking answers, but they have also expressed that this tragic and senseless random act of violence will not define our City or the River District.

Mayor Boddy met with Chief of Police Craig Ambrose to discuss the investigation, ongoing crime prevention throughout the City, and specific actions for the City to explore that could provide enhanced safety for everyone visiting, shopping, and working in the River District.

As a first Action Step, Mayor Boddy will be asking the City Manager to work with Owen Sound Police Services and Staff to report back to Council as soon as possible with a plan to bring more technology into the River District through the installation and use of additional closed-circuit cameras.

Mayor Boddy will also request the City Manager to identify options and opportunities for additional exterior lighting in designated areas and improved vegetation clearing along the riverbank. Chief Ambrose confirmed that Owen Sound Police Services will continue to have officers on foot and bike patrol throughout the River District and have recently applied for grant funding to increase police presence and address issues of crime and recidivism.

The Ontario Provincial Police Special Investigation Unit is assisting Owen Sound Police Services. They are following every lead and evaluating all evidence that could lead to the arrest of the individuals involved. They have asked for everyone’s patience as they do this work to protect the investigation's integrity.

City Council is confident in our Police Services’ ability to bring those involved to justice.  Earlier this summer, Owen Sound Police worked overtime with the assistance of the Ontario Provincial Police, investigating two different homicides, and these efforts have now led to charges being laid and the arrest of individuals in both cases. 

The issue of crime prevention, homelessness, and addictions is a broader conversation. It must include greater involvement and discussion from the Community Safety and Well-Being Task Force for Bruce and Grey, Grey Bruce Situation Table for Acute Response (STAR), the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force, and the Canadian Mental Health Association Grey Bruce.

For more information, please contact Tim Simmonds, City Manager, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1210 or email tsimmonds@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

  • Owen Sound has seen continued growth in the River District, with more stores opening and more people visiting and shopping. The City will continue to support and work with the River District Board of Management and the Owen Sound Chamber of Commerce to build the downtown.
  • Council continually works to build a safe, strong, cohesive, vibrant, and welcoming City.

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