Ottawa Police Service
Decision INV‑24‑7: Inspector General confirms Ottawa Police Service provided adequate and effective policing related to bicycle thefts
A complaint alleged that the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) was not doing enough to address bicycle thefts in downtown Ottawa, including concerns about thefts associated with local encampments and bike “chop shops.”
Following review of the evidence, the Inspector General found that OPS and the Ottawa Police Services Board met their obligations under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019. OPS demonstrated active crime‑prevention and law‑enforcement initiatives, including adoption of the “529 Garage” bicycle registration program and reporting a recovery rate of over 60% for stolen bikes. Investigations into the complainant’s individual theft reports were properly assigned, and required investigative steps were followed.
Outcome: OPS provided “adequate and effective” policing
Decision Date: March 12, 2026