In the heart of LaSalle, a new chapter in community policing is about to begin. This fall, the LaSalle Police Service is inviting everyday citizens to don a badge and join the force—voluntarily. The newly launched Police Auxiliary Program, the first of its kind in LaSalle, offers residents a hands-on opportunity to give back to their town while gaining unique insight into policing.
“Most police services in Ontario have Auxiliary programs. Creating this in LaSalle is an opportunity for citizens to volunteer for their community police service, give back to LaSalle in a meaningful way, and for some, may be an opportunity to explore policing and get a close look at the profession,” said LaSalle Police chief Michael Pearce.
The Auxiliary Program is looking for dedicated community members to stand alongside officers, supporting everything from special events and bicycle patrols to community engagement initiatives and ride-along with patrol units.
Duties will include a presence at special events such as the Strawberry Festival, Canada Day celebrations, and the Last Call Before Fall, as well as assisting with traffic control during parades, patrolling on bicycles, and joining officers on ride-alongs.
“We are hoping to get a mix of LaSalle residents; some who have an interest in a career in policing, and others that simply want to give back to their community in a unique way,” Pearce added.
The program begins with six auxiliary members.
“We have decided to start with six auxiliary members and will re-assess this number after implementing the program for a year. We may find that six is enough, or perhaps we will benefit from increasing that number. We will have conversations with our officers and auxiliary members to understand what worked well and areas for improvement.” said Pearce.
Applicants will go through a careful screening process.
“Once the application window closes, we will review the candidates and select a group to interview. Once interviews are complete, we select candidates to move forward in the process and conduct background checks. When the final group of six is selected, they will participate in 10 weeks of training (one evening per week). Once training is complete, they will be activated for duty.” explained Pearce.
Interest in the program has already exceeded expectations.
“We have received 60 applications in the first 6 days of the auxiliary program announcement. As the application window is open until the end of October, I expect that number may double. It’s exciting to know that so many people want to be a part of this program.”
The first group of auxiliary officers is set to begin training in January 2026, making history as LaSalle’s inaugural volunteer force.
Full requirements are available at the LaSalle Police Service recruitment page.
With the launch of this program, LaSalle is proving that community safety is a team effort, and the call to serve is open to all who are ready to answer.
Leave a Reply