Special Constables

Welcome to the London Police Service (LPS) Uniformed Division Special Constable Program. Our Uniformed Division Special Constables are a vital part of our Uniformed Division, working closely with Patrol Operations to ensure the safety and security of the London community. If you are considering applying to be a Uniformed Division Special Constable with us, you will play a crucial role in supporting our Constables in various units such as Patrol, the Headquarters Detention Unit, and the Headquarters Reception Unit.

Key Responsibilities:

Three Special Constables, standing downtown London

Crime Prevention and Community Engagement

Conduct high-visibility crime prevention patrols
Engage with the community to foster trust and safety

Operational Support

Assist with calls for service as dispatched or directed
Assist at crime scenes
Manage traffic collisions
Write reports, record witness statements, and canvass neighborhoods
Search for property, evidence, and missing persons
Collect, seize, and log evidence and property

Traffic and Security

Assist with road closures
Transport prisoners safely
Search prisoners upon entry into the cellblock and monitor their well-being
Guard and maintain custody of prisoners and individuals in police custody

Health and Safety

Record the intake and transfer of all prisoner property and prescription medication
Administer prescription medication when required and document the administration
Assess the health and safety of prisoners upon arrival and throughout your shift
Carry LPS-approved naloxone nasal spray and complete training for its use

Surveillance and Monitoring

Maintain constant vigilance of surroundings and actions of persons in custody
Monitor video equipment in holding cells and transportation vehicles Public Interaction

Assist members of the public within the Headquarters Reception Unit
Maintain a clear, chronological list of daily activities in your duty book

Conflict Resolution and Law Enforcement

Utilize de-escalation strategies to diffuse problematic situations
Employ use-of-force when necessary, following applicable legislation and LPS procedures
Execute warrants, summons, and DNA orders, completing all pertinent paperwork
Liaise with correctional institutions and relay important information to officers and supervisors

Compliance and Professionalism

Carry out all duties in compliance with applicable legislation and procedures
Undertake other duties as assigned within your core competencies

Understanding the Roles: Uniformed Division Special Constables vs. Sworn Officers

Special Constable, leaning on Special Constable Cruiser

At the LPS, we believe in transparency and ensuring that the public is well-informed about the distinct roles of our Special Constables and Sworn Officers. Below, we outline the key differences to help you better understand each position and their responsibilities:

Identification and Uniform:

Special Constables can be easily recognized by the specific markings on their uniforms. This helps the public distinguish them from Sworn Officers at a glance.

Powers and Responsibilities:

Unlike Sworn Officers, Special Constables do not possess the same level of authority. While they can initiate investigations for certain provincial acts, their involvement in criminal investigations is limited and must be directed by a police officer. In these instances, they act in a supporting role only.

Use of Force:

Special Constables are equipped with some use-of-force options, but it is important to note that they do not carry firearms or tasers. Their training and equipment are tailored to their specific duties and the scope of their authority.

Engagement Protocol:

There are certain situations where a Special Constable may need to wait for Sworn Officers to arrive before engaging. This is due to the differences in their training and the level of force they are authorized to carry. Ensuring safety and proper handling of incidents is our top priority.

Why Join Us?

Joining the Special Constable Program offers you a unique opportunity to make a difference in your community. You will receive comprehensive training, work alongside dedicated professionals, and gain valuable experience in law enforcement.

As of January 1, 2024, a Uniformed Division Special Constable will make $91, 356.

If you are committed to public service, have a keen sense of responsibility, and are ready to support the LPS in maintaining safety and order, we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications/Requirements

Copy of OACP Certificate issued within the past three years.
Copy of Valid Class G Driver’s License.
Copy of successful completion of LPS Fitness Test within the past 12 months.
Copy of Valid Standard First Aid Certificate and CPR (Level C)
Copy of Secondary School Diploma or Equivalent
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (NOTE: If you were born outside of Canada, submit citizenship or permanent residency documentation. These documents must show your date of birth – a passport and/or ‘statement of live birth’ are not sufficient.)

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