Police Liaison Team

Police Liaison Team (PLT)

The London Police Service’s Police Liaison Team is trained to respond to events such as demonstrations, rallies, vigils and labour disputes. 

Who are we?

Liaisons work with individuals or groups to help facilitate peaceful events and are a great resource for those planning on organizing or attending an event.

Our job is to dialogue and work with all of those affected by an event.

What to know before you go? 

• Your rights
• The role of police
• Consider your actions
• Communicate with police pre-event
• When actions could result in charges
• Know the local by-laws
• Understand the consequences
• Ask questions
• Working together is better for everyone 

You can

• Gather to peacefully assert your rights
• Express your thoughts, beliefs and opinions
• Get your messaging out in a lawful way
• Have freedom of association

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees certain rights and fundamental freedoms. Section 2 of the Charter guarantees your right to believe what you choose, and to express your values. The LPS recognizes the importance of fundamental freedoms and all other protections in the Charter. 

If you’re not sure, ask 

• Is this considered a peaceful/lawful event?
• Does this event require a permit?
• Am I allowed to wear a mask? 

Though all Canadians are entitled to rights and freedoms, Section 1 of the Charter calls for certain limitations. Rights and freedoms are not without responsibilities. The Supreme Court of Canada has recognized that freedoms in the Charter cannot be extended to protect and justify threats or acts of violence like assault, destruction of property, or unlawful conduct. 

You can’t 

• Block or obstruct a highway
• Breach the peace
• Cause a disturbance, take part in a riot
• Wear a mask or disguise during an unlawful assembly, or, with intent to commit an indictable offence
• Disobey a court order
• Harm or injure anyone
• Possess weapons of any kind including substances such as tear gas 

The Criminal Code of Canada and/or “Case Law” contains various provisions that act to limit or control certain activities related to public demonstrations.

Know the consequences

There also may be provincial and municipal statutes that apply during demonstrations such as the Highway Traffic Act. Protesting unlawfully has the potential to affect your future in various ways.

Charges resulting in a criminal record, could result in things like:

• Travel limitations
• Possibility of limited employment prospects
• Impacts when obtaining insurance or renting housing
• Further legal consequences if breaching a court order

To contact the Police Liaison Unit, please refer to the contact box in the upper left corner of this page.

LPS Police Liaison Team PDF