Toronto Police Launch New Community Safety Hub at Dufferin Mall
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
The fourth hub of its kind in the city aims to deter retail theft and build community trust through a 'hyper local' policing approach.
Toronto police officially opened a community safety hub at Dufferin Mall on Monday, marking the fourth such installation in the city. According to reporting from CBC Toronto, the hub is designed as a neutral, accessible space intended to foster community trust and provide a venue for residents to discuss concerns with officers before a crisis occurs.
Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue told reporters that a police presence is critical for deterring crime, specifically retail theft, and that the hub allows for a "hyper local" approach to policing. The facility will be staffed primarily by Dufferin Grove neighbourhood community officers and other personnel from 11 Division. Police stated the hub will serve as a central point for personal safety, youth and senior safety, theft, fraud and scam awareness, and referrals to community resources.
Supporting the initiative, Dufferin Mall General Manager Amanda Campbell said the space allows for visibility and approachable policing. Liberal MP Julie Dzerowicz added that the hub enables officers to work alongside business owners and residents, which benefits both the community and the local economy.
Supt. Andrew Ecklund cited crime reductions at previous hubs as evidence of the model's effectiveness. CBC Toronto reports that since the Fairview Mall hub opened in January 2025, auto thefts decreased by 65%, robberies by 32%, and thefts over $5,000 by 27%. At the Don Mills hub, opened in September 2025, police reported a 100% drop in both assaults and sexual violations, a 59% decrease in auto thefts, and a 33% drop in robberies.
Other existing hubs are located in Lawrence Heights, Fairview Mall, and the Shops at Don Mills. The Dufferin Mall location will not serve as a reporting location and will not be staffed 24/7.