In Barrie, virtual officers can now take your call

A police service in this undated file image. (Mike Arsalides/CTV News)

Sometimes, a video call with an officer is all you really need.

On Monday, the Barrie Police Service launched a Virtual Call Response (VCR) pilot project to allow certain non-emergency calls for service – where there is no immediate threat to people or property – to be held through a secure video chat with an officer located at Barrie Police headquarters.

“Virtual call response offers an additional option for callers who may not want to wait for a front-line officer to be available or who may not want to have police attend their location,” said Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston.

• Download the CTV News app to get local alerts on your device 
• Get the latest local updates sent to your email inbox

Sgt. Bill Grant is now serving as the VCR officer. Callers whose situation meets the criteria may receive a phone call from Sgt. Grant offering a secure, two-way video call to respond to the incident.

Johnston said police are committed to providing a service that is not only effective and efficient but empathetic as well.

“This type of approach has been implemented in several other police services, and research has shown that it is appreciated by those who have used it,” he said.

If police determin an in-person response is needed, officers will be dispatched.