Current News Releases

July 23rd, 2021

On July 23, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service entered into an investigation after receiving several reports of a male driver intentionally driving his truck onto a recently painted “Pride” flag on the roadway at the corner of Park St. at King St. and spinning his tires with the intent to cause damage to the painted flag. The driver was located and identified a short time later and was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for Stunt Driving. The investigation continued and the 56-year-old male from Leeds and the 1000 Islands is additionally charged under the Criminal Code with Mischief Under $5000. The male is to appear in Court at a later date to answer to both charges.

July 24th, 2021

On July 24, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service received a call from a local hotel regarding a female guest who had presented herself in the lobby indicating that she had been assaulted and requested that police be contacted. The initial investigation suggested that the female had been assaulted by her male partner after a night of drinking and socializing with other family members. Police continued to investigate and interviewed all involved parties, including the couple’s 12-year-old child that was witness to the events. As a result of the investigation, the original complainant, a 34-year-old female from Mississauga was charged with one count of Assault. She was released by way of an Undertaking and is to appear in Court at a later date.

July 25th, 2021

On July 25th 2021 at approximately 3am, Gananoque Police Service responded to a report of an unprovoked assault on an adult male by 4 unknown males. A third party witnessed some of the assault and called police. The males were observed walking away from the scene southbound on Main Street, towards the waterfront.

Police are asking anyone that may have witnessed the event, or anyone with surveillance in the Main Street south ward area to contact the Gananoque Police Service at 613-382-4422. Callers can remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by contacting Gananoque Police and asking to remain anonymous.

July 25th, 2021

On July 25th 2021 at approximately 4:30am, Gananoque Police Service responded to a report of an assault. The incident involved a 16-year-old female victim who claimed to have been assaulted by another female. Subsequent investigation corroborated the victim’s claims and as such, a 43-year-old Gananoque woman was arrested and charged with Assault. She was released on conditions and will appear in court on a future date.

July 21st, 2021

On July 8th, 2021 officers of the Gananoque Police Service responded to a report of an assault on a youth, with a weapon at a public park. As a result of investigation, including interviews of numerous witnesses, an 18-year-old male suspect identified, arrested, and charged the day of the incident. Two other Kingston area males were identified, and arrest warrants were sought for their involvement in the incident.

On July 21st, 2021 one of the males turned himself in to Gananoque Police where he was arrested on the strength of his arrest warrant. He was held in custody for a bail hearing. The male was charged with several offences including: Use of Firearm during the Commission of an Offence, Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Carrying Concealed Weapon, Assault with a Weapon and 2 counts of failing to comply with a Probation Order.

Gananoque Police still hold a third arrest warrant for a male party currently in custody on other matters.

July 20th, 2021

The Gananoque Police were called to a hit and run collision that occurred in the early evening of July 20th at King Street West and Hickory Street. The suspect vehicle fled the scene following the collision. The suspect called police a short time later and reported that he had been the victim of a hit and run. Officers attended at the suspects location and quickly determined that the suspect and accompanying vehicle were involved in the prior incident and he was arrested accordingly. A 19-year-old Gananoque man was charged with Impaired Operation, Refusal to Provide a Breath Sample, Dangerous Operation and Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident. He will appear in court at a later date.

July 20th, 2021

Officers attended a Southward residence to a report of mischief. Officers attended and determined a youth had kicked a door in causing damage to the door, locking mechanism and frame. The youth was charged with Mischief under $5,000.00 and will appear in court at a later date.

October 10th, 2020

On October 10th, 2020 officers received a report of a theft from a Charles Street residence that resulted in suspicious activity on a bank card. An extensive investigation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of a 39-year-old Gananoque female on July 8th, 2021. The female was charged with: Theft of Credit Card, Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000 - in Canada, Fraud Over $5000, Use of Credit Card. She was released on an Undertaking and will be seen in court at a later date.

July 9th, 2021

On July 9th, 2021 officers attended a local group home to investigate a report of mischief to a residence. Upon arrival, officers viewed extensive damage and as a result a youth was arrested and charged with: Mischief Under $ 5,000. The youth was released on an Undertaking before an Officer in Charge and will be seen in court at a later date.

July 11th, 2021

On July 11th, 2021 officers responded to a report of a break and enter in progress at a residence. Upon arrival, officers arrested a 24-year-old Gananoque male who was transported to the station and charged with: Criminal Harassment - repeatedly communicate, Unlawfully in Dwelling House, Possession of a Schedule I Substance – Methamphetamine. The male was held in custody for a bail hearing.

June 14th, 2021

On July 14th, 2021 officers received a bench warrant from the Ontario Court of Justice for a 28-year-old Gananoque female who had failed to attend her court date as required. The officers located the female while on patrol and she was subsequently arrested, charged with Failure to attend court after having appeared, and was released on an Undertaking before an Officer in Charge.

July 14th, 2021

On July 14th, 2021 officers attended a Stone Street residence after receiving a report of an unwanted male. Upon arrival, it was confirmed the male was wanted by Renfrew OPP. Officers arrested the 25-year-old male on the strength of OPP’s warrant. He was transported to the station and released on an Undertaking held by OPP.

July 14th, 2021

On July 14th, 2021 the Gananoque Police Service received a report of a stolen vehicle, taken from the parking lot of a Water Street business. The stolen vehicle is a 2018 diesel Ford F350 truck, gold or tan in colour, with a hard-top tonneau cover, taken between the hours of 3:00pm and 6:00pm.

Anyone with more information can contact the Gananoque Police Service at 1-613-382-4422 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

July 8th, 2021

On July 8th, 2021 officers of the Gananoque Police Service responded to a report of an assault on a youth, with a weapon at a public park. Numerous witnesses lead police to a nearby residence and subsequently an 18-year-old male suspect was arrested. The male was charged with: Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Carrying Concealed Weapon, Assault with a Weapon. He was held in custody for a bail hearing.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is encouraged to contact police at 613-382-4422. Callers can always remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or contacting Gananoque Police and asking to remain anonymous.

An arrest warrant is being sought for a second male involved in the assault who left the area prior to officer’s arrival.

July 5th, 2021

On July 5th, 2021, The Gananoque Police Service while on patrol observed a female party who was known to be on an outstanding arrest warrant as a passenger in a vehicle. A traffic stop was conducted, and the 29-year-old female was arrested. Further investigation revealed drug paraphernalia within the vehicle and officers arrested a 30-year-old and a 34-year-old male from Kingston. The 40-year-old female driver, who was a resident of Gananoque, was arrested after officers observed what was believed to be crystal methamphetamine within her wallet as she was searching for documentation.

A complete search of the vehicle and the involved parties was conducted, and officers seized a large quantity of crystal methamphetamine, hydromorphone pills, Canadian currency, a replica handgun, and break-in instruments.

As a result, the four parties were charged with the following: Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking a Schedule I Substance Methamphetamine, Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking a Schedule I Substance Morphine, Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Possession of imitation weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime under $5000 - in Canada, Failure to Comply with Undertaking, Failure to Comply with Release Order - other than to attend court, Fail to Comply with Probation Order.

July 1st, 2021

The Gananoque Police Service has began conducting a Positive Ticket Program in partnership with the Gananoque McDonald’s. The program will focus on police observing positive youth behaviour as well as proper road safety while bicycling, specifically the wearing of helmets.

While on patrol, if a police officer observes a youth or youths acting as positive role models and showing proper bike safety, the officer may issue the youth or youths a ‘Positive Ticket’ that will allow them to redeem a complimentary Ice Cream or Happy Meal from our local McDonald’s.

Be sure to tell your kids to help spread the word!

The Gananoque Police Service would like to thank the wonderful staff at our local McDonald’s for allowing this great initiative!

June 29th, 2021

The Gananoque Police received several calls of a domestic disturbance at a residence in the north ward. Officers arrived and determined that a male and female had been involved in an argument. The situation escalated resulting in the male party pushing the female. The female attempted to leave the area in a vehicle and the male uttered threats to cause death to the female and climbed onto the vehicle preventing the female from leaving.

A 36-year-old Gananoque man was arrested for domestic assault and uttering death threats. He was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

June 27th, 2021

On June 27, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service, while on patrol, observed a 52-year-old Gananoque man that was known to have two outstanding Breach of Probation arrest warrants. The male was arrested on the strength of the outstanding warrants and brought to the Gananoque Police Station for processing. During a search of his person, officers discovered a quantity of a drug suspected to be Crystal Methamphetamine concealed within the male’s clothing. The male was charged additionally with Possession of a Schedule I Controlled Substance and held for a show cause hearing.

June 26th, 2021

On June 26, 2021 officers of the Gananoque Police Service responded to a local restaurant where a male had been refused service and became loud and belligerent and in doing so caused a disturbance. During the disturbance the male uttered death threats to the staff and police were called. The male departed prior to police arrival however was soon located and arrested. The 57 year old male was charged with Cause Disturbance and Utter Threats and was released with a future court date.

June 25th, 2021

In response to the voices of local youth and following the success of the teen program in operation at the Brockville YMCA, the YMCA of Eastern Ontario is collaborating with the Town of Gananoque, the United Way, the Gananoque Police and RNJ Youth Services to deliver a drop-in program for teens in Gananoque over the summer.
“We are focussed on addressing gaps in services across our region and are excited about partnering with like-minded agencies to help people in our communities,” said Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “We are pleased to be working alongside RNJ Youth Services and Gananoque Police and to have funding from the United Way Gananoque town council who see the value in supporting local youth.”
Gananoque Police see the new program as a positive response to what they have been hearing from youth. Police Chief Scott Gee said, “Through numerous consultations, youth have told us that they want a safe space to gather and that is what this initiative provides. We are pleased that the Town has recognized the voices of our teens and is playing an important role in making this a reality.”
The mobile teen drop-in would provide teens with access to free wi-fi, a safe space and good food – things that teens have said are very important to them. “We are happy to be partnering on this initiative,” said Sue Poldervaart, executive director of RNJ Youth Services. “This is a great thing for our youth and brings them much needed services. We’re looking forward to an exciting summer.”
The United Way is providing $10,000 to this initiative and the Town of Gananoque is matching this contribution. Gananoque police and fire services are donating use of the mobile command trailer to use as the drop-in space. The YMCA is covering the remaining budget of $5,000 as a demonstration of its strong commitment to supporting teens with opportunities for healthy activities and positive social connections.
“United Way Leeds and Grenville is thrilled to support the youth in Gananoque. We have worked diligently with a number of stakeholders over the past several months to understand the needs of the youth in the community. Thank you to the YMCA Eastern Ontario for taking the lead on this important first step,” said Trish Buote, executive director, United Way Leeds and Grenville.
The program will launch the week of July 5 at Joel Stone Park (The Berm). Covid protocols will be in place.

About the YMCA of Eastern Ontario

The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is a charity that provides programs and services to improve health and health outcomes, develops leaders, helps build social connections and provides safe, inclusive spaces for people of all ages. The Y is Canada’s largest provider of childcare with trademarked curricula, and offers fitness and other programs including SCUBA, Karate and Total Life Care. Find out more at: https://eo.ymca.ca/.

June 21st, 2021

On June 21, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service received a complaint of a stolen 2016 Can Am Outlander XTP ATV license plate 4DY69, from the area of Pine St. East in the Town of Gananoque. The owner reports that the orange and black ATV was taken from his residence between June 18 and June 21. The investigation into this incident is ongoing and police request that anyone with information contact the Gananoque Police Service at 1-613-382-4422 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

June 17th, 2021

On June 17, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service located a 48 year old Gananoque woman who was known to have an outstanding Bench Warrant. As officers attempted to explain the nature of the warrant the female became agitated and uttered death threats to police. While attempting to affect the arrest the female continued to utter threats and began to struggle with police in an attempt to resist arrest. The female was arrested and charged with 3 counts of Resist a Peace Officer, 2 counts of Utter Threats and one count of Breach of Probation and was held for a Show Cause Hearing.

June 17th, 2021

On June 17, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police Service responded to a complaint of a male who uttered threats to a female. The female reported that while with a group a friends, the male contacted them and uttered threats to a number of people within the group. A second call was received where additional complainants came forward regarding the same incident. The male was located a short time later and brought to the Gananoque Police Service. The 19-year-old Mallorytown man was charged with 2 counts Utter Threats and one count Criminal Harassment and later released on an Undertaking.

June 8th, 2021

On June 08th, 2021 officers conducted a traffic stop of an unplated vehicle under the belief that it may be stolen. The driver and male passenger were detained while the investigation into the vehicle continued. The passenger abruptly left the scene in a second vehicle that arrived unexpectedly. The vehicle left the scene at a high rate of speed in a dangerous manner and later engaged in a pursuit in another police jurisdiction. A search of the vehicle at the initial traffic stop revealed a concealed replica handgun.

The driver of the second vehicle, a 47 year old male from Brockville, later turned himself in to the Brockville Police and was transported to Gananoque Police to face charges of Obstruct Police, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Flight from Police and Fail to Comply with Probation. The male passenger who fled the initial traffic stop, was later identified as a 31 year old male from Brockville, and was charged with Weapons Dangerous, Obstruct Police, Escape Lawful Custody, Fail to Comply Probation, Fail to Comply Release Order, Utter Threats to Cause Death and 2 counts of Assault with a Weapon. Both males were held in custody pending a bail hearing.

June 11th, 2021

On June 11, 2021, a 38 year old male from Gananoque turned himself into police regarding allegation of him breaching a previous Release Order. The male had previously been charged with domestic related offences and had been released with a condition that he was not allowed to be within 200 meters of the victim’s property. The victim and several witnesses provided statements that placed the male in the immediate vicinity of the victims residence on two occasions. The male was arrested and charged with two counts of Failing to Comply with a Release Order and held for a bail hearing.

June 11th, 2021

On June 11, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle they believed to be operating erratically. The driver acknowledged consuming alcohol prior to driving and her speech was noted to be slurred. An alcohol screening device (ASD) was administered and the driver repeatedly failed to provide a proper sample of her breath. A 66 year old female from Gananoque was charged with Failing/Refusing to Comply with a Demand Made by Police. Her vehicle was impounded for 7 days and her driver licence suspended for 90 days. She was later released by way of an Appearance Notice to appear in Court at a later time.

June 13th, 2021

On June 13, 2021, officers of the Gananoque Police were called to a local residence regarding an unwanted suspicious male on private property. The male was observed on the property by homeowners who called police and confronted the male. The male began yelling and became belligerent. Police arrived on scene and took custody of the male, who at owner’s request, was trespassed and released unconditionally. A further search revealed items of the male’s property and clothing throughout several different locations on the property and in one of the out buildings. Police later located and arrested a 30 year old Gananoque man for Break and Enter, Cause Disturbance and Breach of Probation. He was released by way of an Undertaking and is to appear in Court at a later date.

June 4th, 2021

On June 4th, officers located and arrested a 50-year-old male from Gananoque on two outstanding arrest warrants for outstanding charges from 2020. The male had evaded police till his arrest. In 2020 Police were contacted on two occasions from the victim who had been the victim of several domestic related incidents. The male was subsequently charged with Mischief, Break and Enter, Assault, Utter Threats, Assault with a weapon, and overcome resistance by choking. The accused male is scheduled to appear in Brockville Court.

June 4th, 2021

On June 4th officers responded to a report of a male driving while impaired after leaving a party. The vehicle and driver were located and after failing a roadside breath test the male was arrested. Further testing at the station resulted in the male having a blood alcohol content of 150mg.

The 24-year-old male from Gananoque was charged with CC 320.14(1)(a) Operation while impaired, and CC 320.14(1)(b) Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus), the vehicle was impounded for a 7-day period and the male’s driver’s license was suspended for 90 days and is scheduled to appear in Brockville court.

June 5th, 2021

On June 5th, officers while on routine patrol observed a known male who was wanted by the Brockville Police Service for failing to attend court. Officers arrested the 46-year-old male from Gananoque on the strength of the warrant.

June 6th, 2021

On June 6th, officers located a 48-year-old female at a Gananoque residence currently wanted for failing to comply with her release conditions from a previous assault charge. The female was arrested and returned to police headquarters. The female is scheduled to appear in Brockville court.

June 6th, 2021

On June 6th, officers on routine patrol observed a 41-year-old male from Gananoque currently wanted for breaching his conditional sentence order. As a result of the investigation officers determined the male had been breaching his order on several occasions over the past month and a warrant was sought for his arrest as he refused to turn himself into police. The order bound the male to serve his sentence in the community and be bound to house arrest. The male was held in custody.

June 6th, 2021

On June 6th, the Gananoque Police Service received a 911 call from a local group home reporting an allegation of assault. After arriving on scene, officers arrested a youth who was subsequently charged with CC 266 Assault, CC 264.1(1)(a) Uttering Threats - Cause death or Bodily Harm, CC 430(4) Mischief Under $ 5,000. The youth is scheduled to appear in court in Brockville Court.

May 28th, 2021

The Police Services Board of Gananoque wishes to announce the retirement of Chief Garry Hull effective May 28th, 2021.
Chief Hull served our community since his appointment in March of 2014. He has provided Gananoque with outstanding service and leadership. The Police Services Board wishes to thank Chief Hull for his contribution to our town and wishes him a very enjoyable retirement.

Effective May 28th, 2021, Gananoque Police Services will have a new Chief of Police. Mr. Scott Gee, has been appointed by the Police Services Board of Gananoque to head the force following outgoing Chief Garry Hull’s retirement.
Scott looks forward to continuing his leadership role with the service and working with and supporting the goals, objectives and vision of the Police Services Board and the community. In his role as Chief, Scott will work with the Police Services Board to continue to provide efficient, effective, and quality policing services in Gananoque.
Scott’s experience to date in policing extends over 18 years. He has progressed through various leadership roles within the Gananoque Police Service including fulfilling the temporary Acting Chief position during various periods of time over the past 6 years. Scott has gained the personal respect of fellow officers from all services ranging from recruits to senior officers and has extensive training in all aspects of policing.
Selection of our new Chief was based on many factors, including Scott’s understanding of the needs and challenges faced by a small police service and his training and career development which exceeded requirements of the Chief’s position. He understands the necessity of having all members of the force lead by example in the community.
In Scott’s own words, “I am prepared and eager to meet the challenges associated with supporting the vision of The Gananoque Police Services Board.” We welcome Scott and look forward to working with him, the members of the force, and the community.
The Police Services Board of Gananoque

May 21st, 2021

On May 21, 2021 in the early morning hours the Gananoque Police Service was contacted regarding an unwanted male at a local hotel. Officers attended and located the male who was outside of the hotel rooms and engaged in a verbal argument with a female who was staying at the hotel. As a result of the investigation, it was determined the female was staying at the motel with her new boyfriend and child and the accused attended the motel. The accused is currently before the court for domestic related incidents involving the female and is further on probation for domestic related incidents involving the female. The accused is to have no contact with the victim, and further to not attend places she is known to be. As a result, the 39-year-old male from Inverary was arrested and charged with failing to comply with his conditions and was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

May 20th, 2021

On May 20th, 2021, The Gananoque Police Service received information in relation to possible illegal possession of firearms. A search warrant was granted, and police seized five firearms and a quantity of ammunition. A 55-year-old Gananoque male was charged with two counts of Possession of firearm/ammunition contrary to a prohibition order, Unauthorized possession of a firearm and Knowledge of unauthorized possession of a firearm. The male is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

May 14th, 2021

On May 14th, 2021 the Gananoque Police Service responded to a report of a bear sighting in the area of Victoria Avenue and Second Street in the early morning hours. Police verified that the bear had left the area and would like to advise the public not to approach and to use caution if a bear is observed. If possible, be mindful of garbage being left out as it attracts wildlife.
Any further inquiries can be directed to the Ontario Bear Wise Program at 1-866-514-2327.

Telephone Scams

The Gananoque Police Service is reminding people to verify the legitimacy of any organization that calls asking for funds from the public, and to only provide personal information, credit card information and banking information to reliable and confirmed sources.

Credit Card Fraud Scams

The Gananoque Police Service is reminding the public to verify the legitimacy of any organization that calls advising a credit or debit card has been compromised and requests personal information, credit card information or banking information. This can be done by calling the credit card company or banking institution directly.

Canada Revenue Agency Phone Calls

The Gananoque Police have received several complaints from concerned citizens who have been receiving calls from individuals who claim to work for Revenue Canada. The caller demands payment for money owed from past income tax years, sometimes using aggressive tactics and ultimatums. Citizens are reminded that these types of calls are fraudulent and should be ignored. Additionally, citizens should never give financial or personal information out over the phone to non-trusted sources. For more information, the CRA has issues an advisory on this matter, or visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website at www.antifraudcentre.ca to learn more about this and other popular scams.

Door-to-Door Solicitors

Recently many Gananoque residents have again been the target of door-to-door solicitors using questionable tactics.
The Gananoque Police Service reminds citizens to be cautious when it comes to allowing strangers into their homes. Although many door-to-door sales campaigns involve legitimate companies the tactics used by some canvassers cause concern for some residents.
Please remember that you are not obligated to allow anyone into your home. Legitimate door-to-door canvassers usually have identification cards and literature explaining who they are and the products and services they are offering. Don’t allow the canvassers to pressure you into completing a transaction with claims such as "this is a one-time only deal" or "after today the price goes up". Take the time to research the product or service and "read the fine print" before making a financial commitment.
Residents are also encouraged to report the negative experience to the company that the solicitors are representing. Most companies welcome such feedback as they do not want their corporate image affected negatively by such behaviour from their employees. If, however, you feel you have been the target of a scam, fraud or aggressive tactics, please report the incident to police. Additionally, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre can be contacted at 1-888-495-8501 to report a fraud and to receive more information about frauds and scams. For further information visit their website at www.antifraudcentre.ca.

OPPA not soliciting funds for its Community Bear Program

The Gananoque Police Service has received a number of inquiries from Gananoque residents asking about telephone calls they have received soliciting funds for teddy bears for The Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA). The Gananoque Police Service is advising that the OPPA has confirmed that they do not solicit the public for its Community Bear Program and this is a confirmed scam.
The Gananoque Police Service is reminding people to verify the legitimacy of any organization that calls to solicit funds from the public, and to only provide personal information, credit card information and banking information to reliable and confirmed sources.

The Gananoque Police Service has received several complaints of vehicles failing to stop for local school buses which have their flashing lights activated and children boarding the bus.
We would like to remind drivers to remain vigilant when on the roads during the morning and afternoon hours.


When driving on a road WITHOUT a median:

• drivers travelling in both directions must stop for a stopped school bus with its upper red lights flashing.
• when you approach the bus from the front, stop at a safe distance to let children get on or off the bus and cross the road.
• when approaching from the rear, drivers should maintain an approximate 20 metre space.
• do not move forward until the red lights have stopped flashing or the bus begins to move.

Drivers can be charged if they pass a stopped school bus with its upper red lights flashing:

• First offence: $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points.
• Each following offence: $1,000 to $4,000, six demerit points and possible jail time (up to six months).
• Vehicle owners can also be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus, even if they weren't driving.
• If the vehicle owner does not pay the fine, they will not be able to renew the vehicle's permit.

Today, with all the shopping transactions that take place daily online, the Gananoque Police Service understands that you may feel uncomfortable meeting a stranger to complete an internet transaction. This Service encourages individuals to use the Gananoque Emergency Services parking lot as a "Safe Exchange Spot" for your internet purchases. Our station is under video surveillance and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.