Ottawa police conduct one-day enforcement at George and Cumberland, lay dozens of charges
Police conducted 'Project Intersect' in the ByWard Market on August 11 following community complaints of violence and drug use. Over two dozen charges laid.
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Ottawa police conducted a targeted one-day enforcement operation in the ByWard Market on August 11 following several community complaints of violence, open drug use and public disorder near George and Cumberland streets.
The operation, named "Project Intersect," involved the community outreach unit, neighbourhood resource team and crime intelligence unit. "Local residents, business owners, and community members expressed strong support for the heightened police presence and direct response to public safety issues in the area," said Superintendent Kenneth Bryden.
Over the course of the day, officers laid more than two dozen charges. Seven people were arrested under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act for possession of a Schedule I substance; two charges were laid for carrying a concealed weapon. One person is facing 16 counts of theft and a breach of probation and was arrested alongside two others wanted on outstanding warrants. Two charges were laid under the Liquor Licence and Control Act. Four trespassing incidents were resolved through dialogue with those involved.
After the operation concluded, police and City of Ottawa workers cleaned up the area. "Further patrols are expected in the nearby areas and across the city," police said in a release.
The facts
What was the enforcement operation in the ByWard Market called?
'Project Intersect' was the name of the targeted one-day enforcement operation conducted by Ottawa police on August 11, 2026 in the ByWard Market near George and Cumberland streets.
How many charges did Ottawa police lay during the operation?
Ottawa police laid more than two dozen charges during 'Project Intersect' on August 11, 2026, including seven for drug possession, two for carrying a concealed weapon, two under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, and 16 counts of theft against one individual.
Why did Ottawa police conduct the operation?
Ottawa police conducted 'Project Intersect' following community complaints of violence, open drug use, and public disorder near George and Cumberland streets in the ByWard Market.
