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Hamilton police introduce measures in response to spike in shootings

Hamilton police seized a loaded handgun and drugs after a traffic stop in the city. Hamilton Police Service

With an increase in the number of shootings in Hamilton so far this year, police are taking a number of initiatives.

There have been eight shootings in the city since the beginning of January compared to three during the same time in 2018.

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“This recent trend is not acceptable — one shooting is too many for our community,” Supt. Ryan Diodati says

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He says Hamilton police have increased patrols, executed search warrants and are implementing a task force.

But they’re also asking witnesses to come forward.

He says the majority of incidents are targeted, but in most cases the victims and witnesses have been unco-operative.

“We can’t do this alone. There are people out there with information and we encourage them to come forward to hold those responsible accountable,” Diodati says. “We need to continue working together to make sure Hamilton is a safe place for everyone.”

Hamilton Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed any of the recent shootings to come forward or share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

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“We are developing persons of interest but we know there are individuals out there who have information. It’s important that if you see something, you say something,” he says.

Those with information are being asked to contact Det. Sgt. Jason Cattle at 905-546-3887.

To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit an anonymous tip online at crimestoppershamilton.com.

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