Offenders will now know when they are in an increased penalty zone thanks to a new partnership with the Corporation of Hamilton and Police.

Soon, the City of Hamilton will have increased penalty zone signage displayed to prevent offenders from committing crimes in those areas.

An increased penalty zone is a sensitive area where the dealing of drugs and possession of illegal weapons is viewed particularly harshly in the eyes of the law and where culprits can expect stiffer penalties if caught. They include churches, school, parks, the bus terminal and more.

Deputy Mayor Glen Smith revealed the new initiative during the Corporation's public meeting yesterday.

"On December 14, we had a presentation primarily proposing that we work to put up signage for increased penalty zones. Police will be working with us and advising the public through the media and newspaper."

Mr. Smith explained how the new signs will work: "We will start off with the City of Hamilton and we'll work with Government to work on areas outside of the city."

Mayor Charles Gosling also spoke about the initiative, saying: "There are people who are unaware that it's an increased penalty zone and the signage would help with that. There are a few spots within the city that are not parts of the signage. The only concern that I have with this is in terms of the time plan. I would prefer now for action to take over. We'll go to the board for approval."

The Corporation is planning to put the actual act on the signs so that members of the public can read it for themselves and be aware of the consequences of committing an offence within an increased penalty zone.