Just three weeks in, Windsor Police Chief Al Frederick says the service is already starting to see impressive benefits from moving to 12-hours shifts.
While the Windsor Police Service's budget calls for a 1.5% increase, Frederick says it also expects to save $500,000 in overtime costs.
"We went from five platoons to four platoons," he says. "They're all going home on time."
Windsor police officers started working their new hours at the beginning of the year.
Frederick says his department is watching to make sure everybody gets their breaks.
"In my view, it's very hard to work 12 hours without a break," he says. "We're being very cognizant of people getting their breaks and getting them home on time. So, we're hoping that reduces sick time; that reduces absenteeism."
The increase in the police budget comes from salary increases negotiated in the current labour contract reached with the Windsor Police Services Association. Salaries and benefits make up almost 80% of the $81-million budget.
Not only is the increase less than what other departments have asked the city for, but Frederick also says "that will be the lowest of any police increase in Ontario."
- With files from Maureen Revait