Updated July 20, 2026 @ 5:55pm
Barrie Police are responding to questions from the public about why people who appear to be intoxicated by drugs are not simply being arrested and removed from downtown streets.
Acting Police Sergeant Paul Matte of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Unit says the answer comes down to the difference between alcohol and drug-related laws.
The officer says the Liquor Licence Control Act gives police authority when someone is intoxicated by alcohol in certain circumstances, but the Controlled Drug and Substances Act does not include a similar provision for being intoxicated by a drug.
Barrie's News Delivered To Your Inbox
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Central Ontario Broadcasting, 431 Huronia Rd, Barrie, Ontario, CA, https://www.cobroadcasting.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
"We don't have, police don't have the powers or authorities to remove somebody or arrest someone in that state," Matte explained.
Instead, police say their first priority is checking on the person's well-being.
Matte says police will contact paramedics, who will assess the individual and determine whether medical treatment or transportation to hospital is needed.
"If after that assessment paramedics feel it's necessary for the person to attend a hospital, that will occur," the acting sergeant said.
However, police say people also have the right to refuse medical care.
The officer noted that if someone declines medical treatment or services, paramedics cannot transport them to the hospital.
Police say they will continue responding to calls involving people in crisis, while reminding the public that officers must operate within the authorities provided under provincial and federal law.
