Correcting Misinformation About the Use of Tactical Resources in Canada

Some researchers claim that tactical teams in Canada are responding to ‘routine’ calls. However, this research is based on crude call-type data, which may mask the presence of risk factors. The research also fails to distinguish between the deployment of full tactical teams and the use of tactical officers for other purposes. New research confirms that relying on call-type data masks the presence of risk factors. Seemingly ‘routine’ calls often include serious risk factors, which helps explain why tactical resources are being used when responding to these calls. New research also suggests that when tactical resources are used, it does not always mean that full tactical teams are being deployed. Pairs of tactical officers, not in full tactical gear, often respond to regular calls for service to supplement limited patrol resources.