Approach
Monitoring is about being proactive, responsive and gathering information to address risk where it matters most. The Inspector General takes a risk-based approach to oversight, continuously assessing factors that could impact the delivery of effective policing. The priority is addressing the areas that pose the greatest risk to public safety, community trust, and compliance with the law.
Targeting high-impact issues can:
- Identify problems early before they become systemic.
- Prevent failures that could undermine policing and governance.
- Strengthen accountability and build public confidence.
- Drive continuous improvement through data-driven insights and transparent reporting.
This approach ensures that monitoring is proactive, fair, and effective—helping keep Ontario’s communities safe and policing accountable.
Monitoring in Action
The Inspector General monitors Ontario’s policing sector using a range of tools designed to keep policing accountable and communities safe:
Monitoring and Liaison
Inspectorate of Policing staff work with police services and boards across Ontario, maintaining a local presence and open communication on issues as they arise.
Advice and Support
The Inspector General provides advice and share leading practices to help police services, boards and special constable employers meet their obligations under the law.
Inspections and Investigations
The Inspector General conducts proactive and complaint-driven inspections to assess compliance and performance. These inspections can be thematic, issue-specific, or risk-based.
Data and Analytics
Evidence drives our decisions. The Centre of Data Intelligence and Innovation uses data to identify trends, monitor performance, and spot emerging risks.
Public Reporting
The Inspector General publishes inspection findings, decisions, and annual reports so the public can see how policing is being monitored and improved.
Enforcement Powers
When serious issues arise, the Inspector General can issue directions, impose corrective measures to resolve the issues that have been identified.
Our Commitment
The Inspector General works to build trust and ensure safe, effective policing for everyone in Ontario. Proactive monitoring and transparent oversight, helps to:
- Keep communities safe by addressing risks before they become systemic.
- Strengthen accountability so policing consistently meets the highest standards of performance.
- Promote confidence through open reporting and clear communication.
- Support continuous improvement in police governance and service delivery.
This approach is guided by fairness, transparency, and a focus on what matters most: public safety and trust.
