Violent crimes in Ottawa: Rate on the rise, according to police annual report [Video]

Violent crimes in Ottawa have increased by three per cent in 2023, according to Ottawa Police Service’s annual report.

The city’s police service says the increase was driven by assaults, threats and robberies.

CTV public safety analyst and former OPP commissioner Chris Lewis told Newstalk 580 CFRA’s The Morning Rush with Bill Carroll Tuesday, though the rate of violent crimes has increased in our city, the capital continues to be safe, compared to other major cities, citing that Ottawa ranked 23rd in the list of cities with the highest crime index rates.

“It’s significantly a good thing,” he said.

Lewis adds that the increase in crime rates has significant effects not only on people, but on the community as a whole.

“Any increase in crime affects people,” Lewis said.

Community issues, including addiction, mental health and poverty contribute to the rise in crime rates, not only in Ottawa, but across the country, he adds.

“We continue to make significant progress in addressing mental health calls, …