New Westminster Police Department – New Westminster, BC

New Westminster Police Department (NWPD)

The New Westminster Police Department is one of the oldest and most historic municipal police forces in British Columbia, having been established in 1873. Deeply rooted in the community, the NWPD provides comprehensive law enforcement and public safety services to the City of New Westminster, the first capital of British Columbia. Headquartered on Columbia Street, the department is committed to a philosophy of community policing, working collaboratively with residents and businesses to prevent crime and solve problems. The force is comprised of sworn police officers and civilian staff who serve with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

Operational Divisions and Units

The NWPD is organized into several key divisions to effectively manage the diverse policing needs of the city:

• Patrol Division: The backbone of the department, uniformed patrol officers respond to 9-1-1 emergency calls and non-emergency incidents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They conduct visible patrols to deter crime and ensure traffic safety.
• Major Crime Unit: Highly trained detectives investigate serious offences, including homicides, robberies, and complex frauds. This unit ensures that thorough investigations lead to successful prosecutions.
• Specialized Investigations Unit: This team focuses on sensitive cases involving vulnerable persons, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. They work closely with victim services to provide a trauma-informed response.
• Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: Dedicated officers monitor truck traffic to ensure safety compliance, protecting the city’s infrastructure and road users.

Front Counter Services

The front counter at the NWPD headquarters serves as a vital access point for non-emergency public services. Residents can attend during business hours for:

• Police Information Checks: Processing criminal record checks for employment and volunteer positions.
• Fingerprinting: Digital fingerprinting services for immigration, citizenship, and record suspensions.
• Report Filing: Citizens can report non-emergency crimes, such as property theft or mischief, directly to front desk staff (online reporting is also available for certain minor offences).

Victim Assistance Unit

The NWPD places a strong emphasis on supporting those affected by crime. The Victim Assistance Unit provides emotional support, crisis intervention, and court accompaniment to victims and witnesses. Caseworkers help individuals navigate the criminal justice system, providing information on case status and connecting them with community resources.