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Special Constables

Call 613-741-2478

Special Constable

Our authority

Special Constables are sworn Peace Officers within the City of Ottawa. They receive their Special Constable appointment on behalf of the Ottawa Police Services Board.

They have the powers of a Police Officer to:

  • Investigate incidents
  • Arrest persons
  • Charge offenders under the Criminal Code and/or Provincial and Municipal acts

These powers are limited to incidents on or related to properties under control of OC Transpo.

24/7 Patrol

Special constables do foot patrols in all stations, ride buses and the O-Train and cycle or drive between stations around the clock.

These patrols offer:

  • A visible security presence
  • Deter crime and offences
  • Allow Special Constables to respond quickly to incidents

Special Constable leaving vehicle

If you are the victim or witness of a crime, feel unsafe, harassed or threatened or if you see someone who seems lost or needing help:

  • Approach a Special Constable
  • Approach any transit employee
  • Call 613-741-2478
  • Use a yellow emergency call box located throughout the transit system
  • In the event of an emergency call 9-1-1

Special Constable on foot patrol

Mandate

  • Protect customers, employees and property
  • Preserve the peace
  • Prevent crime and offences
  • Promote public safety and awareness
  • Help persons who need assistance

Special Constable emblem badge on sleeve

Values

  • Adhere to the principles of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
  • Provide fair, unbiased and professional service to the community
  • Treat all victims of crime with compassion and understanding
  • Be approachable, courteous, and open
  • Acknowledge and respect the diversity of cultures
  • Maintain the highest ethical and professional standards

Special constable in uniform

Training

Special Constables receive in-depth and practical training in:

  • Canadian Law
  • Charter of Rights and Freedoms
  • Use of Force
  • Medical First Responder
  • Diversity Awareness
  • Incident Management

Some Special Constables also receive training from the Ontario Police College in:

  • Investigative interviewing
  • Front-line supervising
  • Criminal investigations
  • Being a Coach Officer

Special Constable

Special Constable Unit

The Special Constables form one part of the Unit. Other key groups are:

  • Call takers: receive calls from Operators and members of the public. They respond to calls from emergency call boxes or payphones at stations and Park & Rides
  • Dispatchers: receive information from Call takers and dispatch Special Constables or other emergency services as needed
  • Security Camera Operators: monitor camera feeds from stations, buses, trains and Park & Rides
  • Transit Fare Inspectors:
    • Preserve the integrity of the fare system and make sure passengers pay the fare they owe
    • Verify proof of payment on busy routes

Special Constable Recruitment

Requirements

  • Completion of Post-Secondary Police Foundations or Law and Security Certificate
  • Minimum of 2 years of security experience in a transit environment, or relevant experience
  • Be a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident of Canada
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid Ontario unrestricted G class driver's license (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated
  • Must obtain and maintain Special Constable designation and meet the Transit Special Constable Service’s standards in the use of force, including proficiency with oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, baton, and the use of force continuum
  • Not have been convicted of a criminal offence that has not been pardoned
  • Be physically and mentally able to perform the duties of the position, having regard to his or her own safety and the safety of members of the public
  • Have good moral character and habits
  • Knowledge of security or law enforcement operations and principles an asset
  • Experience in dealing with people and enforcement procedures an asset.
  • Having a valid Standard First Aid Certificate and valid CPR-Level C is considered an asset

Application

The following documentation is required:

  • Resume and cover letter
  • Proof of education
  • Driver’s License Requirement: A valid Ontario unrestricted G class driver’s license (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated

Written Assessment

The SCU Recruitment Written Assessment evaluates the core skills needed to succeed as a Special Constable. This exam measures your ability to understand and apply relevant laws, policies, and real-life scenarios. It focuses on:

  • Reading Comprehension: Interpreting written information accurately.
  • Problem-Solving: Analyzing situations to find effective solutions.
  • Situational Judgment: Choosing appropriate responses in complex or ethical situations.
  • Report Writing: Demonstrating clear, concise, and professional written communication.

This assessment reflects the critical thinking and communication skills essential for success in the role.

Excelerate

DriveAble is a two-part pre-employment evaluation designed to assess both your cognitive and driving abilities. It helps determine your readiness for the demands of safe and responsible vehicle operation in a law enforcement setting. The assessment includes:

  • Cognitive Test: A computer-based assessment measuring attention, memory, reaction time, and decision-making skills.
  • On-Road Driving Test: A practical driving evaluation conducted in a controlled environment to assess your driving habits, safety awareness, and vehicle handling.

The full assessment takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

Competency-based panel interview

Candidates must demonstrate that they have the following competencies:

  • Leadership and negotiation skills
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Assertiveness and self-control
  • Conflict/dispute/crisis resolution skills
  • Sensitivity to the needs of all people and cultures
  • Communication skills

Background Investigation

Candidates selected to proceed beyond the interview stage will need to:

  • Undergo an investigation of their background and personal history including but not limited to:
    • Fingerprinting
    • Driver's license history
    • Credit Checks
    • Background reference check
    • Written MMPI
  • Complete an Ottawa Police Background Investigation Form and a Special Constable Unit pre-background questionnaire. A thorough background investigation, which includes both security and reference checks will be conducted
  • Complete a psychological test and attend an interview with a psychologist

If you are a suitable applicant who is interested in a rewarding career with the Special Constable Unit please apply through the Transit Services – OC Transpo.

Special Constable Complaints Process

Two types of formal complaints can be made against Special Constables:

  1. A complaint about the conduct of a Special Constable.
  2. A complaint about the policies or services of the Special Constable Unit (SCU)

Any member of the public who is directly affected by the conduct of a Special Constable or SCU services or policies can make a complaint.

How to file a complaint against a Special Constable

Please note: this process is strictly reserved for complaints related to Special Constables and/or the policies and procedures that govern them.

A complaint against a Special Constable must be made in writing. Complaints can be submitted by email or mailed to the attention of:

Chief Special Constable
Transit Services, City of Ottawa
OC Transpo Special Constable Unit
1500 St-Laurent Blvd., Ottawa ON K1G 0Z8 

Resolution process

When we receive a complaint about one of our special constables, we will confirm receipt in writing.

We’ll make sure the complaint is investigated to determine whether the special constable:

  • Engaged in misconduct,
  • Violated the terms and conditions of their certificate of appointment, or
  • Violated any provision of the Community Safety Policing Act or regulations.

We strive to complete any investigation of a special constable within 120 days of receiving the complaint. If we can’t meet this timeline, we’ll update the complainant and person investigated on the case status every 30 days until the investigation is complete. We won’t provide updates if it might prejudice the investigation. 

There are three possible conclusions to a complaint against a Special Constable:

  • After the investigation, the Chief Special Constable may find that the complaint is unsubstantiated.
  • The Chief Special Constable may determine that the complaint is substantiated and, as a result, proceed with appropriate disciplinary measures.
  • If the complaint alleges conduct that may constitute criminal conduct, the Chief Special Constable employer shall refer the complaint for investigation by Ottawa Police Service.

Withdrawal of a complaint against a Special Constable

After filing a complaint, you may decide not to pursue the matter.

You can withdraw a complaint by writing to the Special Constable Unit.

Chief Special Constable
Transit Services, City of Ottawa
OC Transpo Special Constable Unit
1500 St-Laurent Blvd., Ottawa ON K1G 0Z8 

Despite your withdrawal, the Chief Special Constable may decide to continue investigating the complaint if it is deemed the allegations merit investigation.

If a complaint is substantiated what will happen to the officer?

There are a range of options available to the Chief Special Constable including:

  • Reprimand
  • Suspension
  • Forfeiture of hours (pay)
  • Termination
  • Criminal charges

In some cases, training is considered an appropriate remedy.