Police leadership from Detroit traveled to Windsor this week to celebrate the official swearing-in ceremony of Windsor's new police chief, highlighting the deep and enduring partnership between the two border cities' law enforcement agencies.
A Brotherhood and Sisterhood Across the Border
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, who attended Tuesday's ceremony for Windsor Police Chief Jason Crowley at the Major FA Tilston Armoury, described the relationship between the two police services as familial. "Windsor and Detroit are like family," Bettison told reporters. "It's really the same population. Windsor, Detroit, we're connected by the bridge. So many Canadians work in the City of Detroit. We come to the City of Windsor."
Bettison emphasized that law enforcement transcends national boundaries. "It's law enforcement. It's a brotherhood and sisterhood — it's about public safety," he said. "I support the new chief. I supported the previous chief. Chief Crowley, I wish him the best. He's been here. You all know him. He's been an excellent partner over the years, and I look forward to the continued relationship."
Mutual Respect and Shared Priorities
Windsor Police Chief Jason Crowley, who assumed leadership from retired Chief Jason Bellaire in November, expressed gratitude for the cross-border collaboration. "I'm proud to be your colleague," Crowley said during his speech, addressing his Detroit counterparts. "Thank you for your service, for making a difference."
Speaking with reporters after the ceremony, Crowley characterized the relationship as a "valuable partnership" that operates seamlessly despite the international border. He acknowledged the critical support from Detroit police and stressed "how important that relationship is with the Detroit police."
Chief Bettison outlined the shared priorities that unite both police services: safety, growth, and stability. With significant movement of people and goods across the Ambassador Bridge connecting the two cities, both forces actively collaborate on information sharing to address cross-border challenges.
Combating Cross-Border Crime Through Collaboration
"Crime has no border," Bettison stated emphatically. "When it comes to the overall contraband that comes across the bridge into both of our cities, going both ways, that's something we share information on to make sure we're protecting the community, the public at large."
Both police departments employ a combination of traditional investigative techniques and modern technology to identify potential threats, with the goal to "deter, stop, prevent, and eliminate" criminal activity that affects both communities.
Historical Collaboration During Major Events
The police chiefs highlighted how their partnership has proven essential during major events that draw international attention. Bettison specifically mentioned Detroit's hosting of the Super Bowl in 2006 and the recent NFL Draft, noting that "the City of Windsor was a key component" in ensuring security and public safety during these high-profile occasions.
"We appreciate that relationship, and it really comes down to people all wanting to be safe," Bettison added. "In the City of Detroit, you have a friend with Detroit Police Department and Chief Bettison."
The ceremony also featured Detroit Assistant Police Chief Franklin Hayes alongside Chiefs Bettison and Crowley, symbolizing the multi-level cooperation between the two police services. This cross-border law enforcement relationship continues to strengthen, with both chiefs expressing commitment to maintaining and enhancing their collaborative efforts for the benefit of both communities.
