Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford has proposed hiring 1,000 additional police officers if elected, arguing that the city's current five-year hiring plan is insufficient to address population growth and public safety concerns.

City officials, including Police Chief Myron Demkiw, acknowledge recent declines in major crime indicators but warn that public perception of safety can be easily undermined by isolated incidents.

Bradford's plan has sparked debate over its feasibility and funding, with critics pointing out that Toronto's police college has limited capacity to train new officers.

Budget Committee Chair Shelley Carroll estimated the initiative could cost over $100 million, while Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized that the city's existing hiring plan is already nearing its capacity limits.

Researchers also question the effectiveness of increased policing, citing studies that show mixed or no evidence of crime reduction from police spending.Instead, they highlight the potential of investing in areas like housing, mental health, and public services to address root causes of crime.

The proposal remains a key talking point in the mayoral race, with candidates and officials weighing its practicality against the city's fiscal and operational constraints.