By Farhad Mohammad, Operations Manager

I am pleased to announce that Pawanpreet Kaur Lochab has been selected as the Employee of the Month for April 2025.

Pawan currently serves as an Operator (OCO) in the Airport Operations Communications Centre (AOCC) at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (BBTCA). She has demonstrated outstanding initiative by developing and refining the training program for new OCOs and has worked collaboratively to enhance the role by introducing site-specific radio etiquette training.

Her dedication to the team and her continuous drive for improvement have made her an excellent candidate for the position of backup Shift Manager. With ongoing training, we are confident that Pawan will continue to thrive in this expanded role.

ASP Security is proud to recognize employees like Pawan who consistently go above and beyond.

Congratulations, Pawan!


By Anwar Bonimy, Operations Manager

I wanted to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible work of our team at the 354 George Street respite facility during a challenging incident that occurred on their shift.

During their shift at said location the team of Harpreet, Manpreet, and Site Supervisor Fayyad did a remarkable job from initially attempting to de-escalate, to making the decision to make an arrest, and professionally conducting the after-arrest formalities.

The team did such an excellent job that, upon review of the report by the City of Toronto, a Senior Security Coordinator at the City reached out to thank the entire team for a job well done and encourage them to keep up the good work. The message included:

“The known information at this time suggests that the team under supervision of Fayyad handled this incident quite well.

The reports appear to capture all essential data; key person involvements, incident details, clear progression in steps taken prior to use of force, articulated cause to take physical control and arrest, duty of care after the arrest (sheltering the offender inside, away from harsh weather), transfer to police at earliest opportunity.

Relatively speaking, it is refreshing to review an incident with end-to-end response as solid as this. Please pass on some kudos to Fayyad, Harpreet, and Manpreet. Ensure each are recognized for their performance”

Left to Right: Harpreet – ASP Specialist, Fayyad – ASP Specialist Supervisor, Anwar Bonimy – Operations Manager RES/CIC and Harpreet – ASP Specialist


By Anwar Bonimy, Operations Manager

During a visit to our Delta Hotel respite centre, I had a chance to meet three of our remarkable team members. It was especially meaningful as this visit was the same day as International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the incredible achievements and contributions of women.

I had the great opportunity to connect with Sandeep, Prinka, and Damanpreet and even had the chance to capture a photo with them. Their commitment to the individuals we support were truly evident, and it was inspiring to witness firsthand the positive impact they have each day.

International Women’s Day is an important reminder to acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of women across all sectors of our organization. From our frontline staff providing essential support to those working diligently behind the scenes, the women of ASP Team bring a wealth of talent, compassion, and leadership that is integral to our success.

To Sandeep, Prinka and Damanpreet, and to every single woman who is a part of the ASP Team family: thank you for your hard work, your dedication, and the unique perspectives you bring. Your contributions make our organization stronger.

Wishing you all a very happy International Women’s Day! May you continue to shine and inspire.


By Anwar Bonimy, Operations Manager

M

Mountains of things you do daily, ensuring that everyone has what they need and is happy and content.

O

Opportunities you have missed out on so that the kids can take advantage of theirs

T

Toughness in you, that you show and use to protect us from a world still not yet fully understanding and accepting of one’s differences.

H

Hugs, hope and happiness you bring into our lives daily.

E

Everywhere and everything that you do daily to protect and care for us,

R

Resilience, in the face of adversity, you bounce back and continue to provide and care for us no matter what comes your way

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the wonderful mothers of ASP and to also to our clients who are mothers, a happy Mother’s Day. May you enjoy this day to the fullest.


By Anwar Bonimy, Operations Manager

TTC Specialist Samar Chhabra and Jeswin Alex, while conducting a routine patrol at the Dundas Subway Station, encountered an unresponsive individual who at the time was exhibiting signs of a drug overdose. Both guards responded with professionalism and efficiency.

S/G Alex immediately initiated CPR while S/G Chhabra communicated with TTC control and cleared the area to ensure emergency responders could access the person in distress. The team administered two doses of naloxone, with S/G Alex continuing CPR between doses. Their efforts successfully restored the individual’s breathing and responsiveness. The guards remained focused and continued life-saving assistance until the subject regained consciousness and began breathing.

The quick thinking, clear communication, and teamwork displayed by S/G Chhabra and S/G Alex were crucial in saving the individual’s life. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of service, professionalism and commitment to public safety.

Picture to the right is a photo of their certificates and also a picture of S/G Chhabra and ASP Operations Manager Anwar Bonimy, unfortunately S/G Alex was not available at the time of the photo.

S/G Chhabra and ASP Operations Manager Anwar Bonimy


By Anwar Bonimy, Operations Manager

I would like to give a warm welcome to Nikhil, one of our most recent additions to the team at one of our corporate offices. Nikhil comes with a lot of knowledge for the area we hired him for and has already made a very bright and positive impression on the clientI would like to give a warm welcome to Nikhil, one of our most recent additions to the team at one of our corporate offices. Nikhil comes with a lot of knowledge for the area we hired him for and has already made a very bright and positive impression on the client.

Tampering with doors and their mechanisms

It has been noted that some guards have been using tissue and cardboard to manipulate the doors so that they do not have to get up and open them for the clients. A memo was circulated already advising of the breech and what actions will be taken if caught. We at ASP appreciate the hard work everyone does and would appreciate if we refrained from this practice and any other practice not in line with the company policies and procedures.

Punching In/Out

This is a reminder to all employees that punching in/out is a part of your daily duties and assignments, we have discovered that this is far below compliance and while there have been numerous notifications and memos sent out, it seems as though we are still not compliant. Please note that we appreciate your efforts and understand that this helps our accounting department out a great deal if we can meet full compliance.

Also please be reminded that when signing in/out on the log sheet, sign your full name and clearly so that our resource planning and accounting team can understand, because we want to ensure that everyone is compensated for their work and time. This small request will go a long way.

Special Occurrence Reporting

We have been having some extreme challenges with the way we are writing out incident reports. We are missing out on the fundamental principles of incident reporting. The who, what, when, where, why, how. We are using conclusive writing such as “the client was being aggressive”, “and writer removed him from the site”. Other improper terms like “the writer told him to stop doing that” and “the client threatened the writer”. I am available for anyone who needs help with their incident reporting, please feel free to contact me at: abonimy@security-asp.com.

These have caused significant strains on the operation and our Resource Planning team. It is imperative that we plan our personal time and work time accordingly. While there is a provision made for employees to get rest and a break away from work, it is expected that this be done in coordination with the employment laws and the ASP’s policies.


By Russ Fox, Master Trainer

Gunther (Gunny) was born in 2015 in Israel. He came to Canada when he was 1 years old after being acquired by ASP in 2016. Gunther began his career at Pearson airport where he spent the first 6 months learning the ropes with the Master Trainer. I was hired soon after he started, and that is when Gunther and I began our career together. There were many challenges in the beginning when we were building trust and bonding with each other but we were able to persevere through. Gunther and I started our career in the commercial unit where he got to work some pretty exciting events. The TFC won the championship, the Toronto Argos won the championship, and the Toronto Raptors won the championship. Gunther got to work all the parades and events in the city leading to some pretty cool career highlights.

After three years of working the exciting commercial unit Gunther and I switched over to the aviation unit where we did patrols and unattended bag inspections at Pearson Airport. Gunther was one of the first canines to be part of the EL-AL airlines contract when ASP first received it. The airport had great opportunities and we were lucky to be a part of it. After two years at Pearson Airport there was an opportunity for Gunther and I to be a part of a new contract located in British Columbia. With Gunther always rising to the occasion I knew he would have no problem packing up and moving out West as long as we were together. Moving to BC has been an amazing experience and we were able to be a part of some successful contracts. The most notable BC moments for Gunther would be working the cruise ship contracts, taking a road trip to Edmonton to work the Juno awards, and all the fun mountain adventures we have taken. Now 10 years old, Gunther has officially started retirement and I couldn’t be happier for him. Gunther had a very exciting career and I am so lucky to have been paired with him eight years ago. I cannot wait to see what exciting adventures we are going to take together in the future. Congratulations Gunny!


By Brad MacRae, Director of K9 Services

This year marks a meaningful milestone for A.S.P. Incorporated—ten years since the launch of our K9 Unit. What began as a modest team with a bold vision has grown into Canada’s largest and most respected private canine detection service.

Our journey began in 2015, with just five handlers, five dogs, and one shared mission: to deliver specialized detection services built on professionalism, precision, and trust. From day one, we knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy. The ambition to become the country’s leading K9 unit was a lofty goal—and one met with its fair share of skepticism. Some doubted our potential. Others tried to dismiss our presence entirely. But through determination, teamwork, and an unwavering belief in our purpose, we refused to back down.

2015 – The Beginning of a Resilient Journey

In January 2015, ASP Inc. was awarded the prestigious GTAA contract for K9 services at Toronto Pearson International Airport—a monumental opportunity that marked the beginning of a journey defined by determination, grit, and growth. Alan Cakebread, appointed as the Manager of the new K9 Unit, took the lead in building something from the ground up.

The selection process was rigorous. Candidates underwent multiple interviews, culminating in final evaluations with Oren of ICTS—an industry pioneer and founder of both ICTS and Diagnose, globally respected for his deep expertise in K9 operations. From this process, five handlers were chosen to shape the foundation of the unit:What started as a challenge quickly became a calling— and over the next decade, it would define who we are.

  • K9-1: Steve
  • K9-2: Brad
  • K9-3: Kevin
  • K9-4: Isaiah
  • K9-5: Bryden

Training began immediately. While we were all learning the ASP way, I was sent to the Canadian Police College for the Explosives Familiarization Course. Pulling up on the first day, I quickly realized I was the only civilian among a group of peace officers and bomb disposal technicians. The skepticism was palpable, and they saw a private K9 unit as unworthy of the work we were preparing for. But I didn’t back down—I showed up every day with focus and humility, breaking down walls slowly, earning respect the hard way. By the end of the week, I had passed all testing, including demolitions—proving that I belonged.

Back at home base, the anticipation was building. Our canines were on their way from France: five golden Labradors, four of them brothers—Jacky, Jahl, Johnny, and Josh. The fifth, Bakhi, was a seasoned dog with operational experience. Steve, already experienced in K9 work, was paired with Bakhi. The rest of us would be matched by drawing names from a hat, as the trainers didn’t yet know

  • Bryden with Johnny
  • Isaiah with Josh
  • Kevin with Jahl
  • Myself with Jacky

With our teams set, we embarked on an intensive 8-week basic handler course. Under the leadership of Alan and our primary trainer Don Missen—who many of you know from Transport Canada certifications—we trained alongside Master Trainers Hans and Patrick from Diagnose. Each day brought new challenges. Due to resistance from the existing K9 teams at the airport, we were relocated to a private, closed-off training site. Reaching that location was a challenge in itself: we had to load kennels, water jugs, and equipment onto baggage carts and navigate the airport’s link train system—five dogs in tow—while maintaining professionalism and discipline in a public space.

Despite our dedication, challenges emerged. With only weeks left before our May 1st launch date, three dogs— Bakhi, Jacky, and Johnny—were deemed unfit to continue. Bryden, too, was removed from the unit for not meeting the required standards. It was a tough blow, but setbacks didn’t stop us. Instead, they became fuel.

Steve and I were issued two new dogs—Boetti, a Belgian Shepherd and Billi, a Czech Shepherd—both experienced and ready to work. We pushed forward, trained harder, and refused to let anything derail our goal. Steve and I passed our validations. Isaiah and Kevin continued progressing with their canine partners.

On May 1st, 2015, our K9 Unit officially went live at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

I remember walking into the K9 Office that morning with a powerful mix of pride and anticipation. I took Billi out for a walk, feeling the full weight and significance of the day. At 0600 hours, we stepped into the terminals for our very first patrol—resilient, tested, and ready. I was assigned to Terminal 3, with Alan by my side. As we made our way through the concourse, we crossed paths with the GTAA Terminal Manager. Alan introduced us, and just as I shook her hand, I noticed her glance shift to Billi—who, at that very moment, dropped into a perfect squat and began defecating on the terminal floor.

It wasn’t exactly the strong first impression I had hoped for. I quickly apologized, handed the leash to Alan, and cleaned up the mess. At the time, I was mortified. But a decade later, it’s a story that brings a smile—a humble reminder that even on milestone days, things don’t always go to plan. And in those moments, resilience truly shows its value.

Our momentum continued to build. Isaiah and Kevin joined us on the floor, bringing strength and continuity to the team. Soon after, we welcomed our fifth handler, Emily Sutherland. She began her 8-week basic course alongside Dash, our first springer spaniel—another step in the evolution of our growing unit. What had begun as a challenge quickly became a mission—and we met it head-on.

2016 – Growth and Recognition

By 2016, our unit was gaining serious traction. We secured the Air Canada Jetz contract, conducting K9 sweeps for sports charter luggage. Not long after, we reached a significant milestone: partnering with El Al Airlines. This was no ordinary win—El Al had never outsourced security work anywhere in the world. Earning their trust was a clear signal of how far we’d come.

Next came another major opportunity: the Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) contract. We began providing K9 services for the Toronto Maple Leaf’s, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and the Toronto Argonauts—culminating with international exposure during the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

We faced yet another challenge when an unexpected and unannounced audit was conducted on our operational teams at MLSE. While the approach felt unfair at the time, it ultimately became a turning point. Our team rose to the occasion, demonstrating professionalism and capability under pressure. The result? A positive indication and a successful pass—with flying colours.

As with any journey marked by growth, there were changes. Kevin departed, and with Alan stepping away, Don assumed the role of manager. Our team continued to evolve. We brought on new handlers and canines, expanding both our capabilities and our camaraderie:

  • Mark Burnett & Cody
  • Christine Cook & Ranger
  • Amanda Malloy & Toka
  • Andrew Cottage & Gelfa
  • Beth Furlong & Jahl (who also served as manager for a period)

K9 Logo

That year also marked the birth of our official K9 Unit logo. Steve and I created mockups in Paint and Photoshop, drawing from the input and ideas of the entire team—all while ensuring we met security regulations. I’ve included some of our original concepts, but it was a team vote that ultimately decided the design we proudly wear today.

2017 to Present
The next chapter of our journey continues in Part 2

By Humberto Pimentel, President and CEO

As we quickly approach the halfway mark of the year, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on some of the key changes and accomplishments we’ve achieved at ASP Security Inc.

First and foremost, we bid a fond farewell to Dean Lovric, our founder and CEO at ASP Security, who has officially retired. Dean’s leadership, vision, and warm personality have left a lasting legacy, and he will be greatly missed by all of us.

April marked the successful implementation of the Planete Scheduling system—a major milestone for our organization. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our Resource Planning team, led by Manager Andrew Catney. Their hard work, adaptability, and commitment were instrumental in delivering this rollout. Of course, there were challenges along the way, but thanks to the support of our IT Project Manager, Noah Thompson, we were able to stay on track and meet our critical timelines.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that the company has submitted bids for several new contracts, both within the Greater Toronto Area and in regions beyond. These efforts are in direct alignment with our strategic goal of expanding our national footprint over the next five years. Achieving this vision will require the collective efforts and support of our entire management team, and I’m confident we are up to the task.

Thank you all for your continued dedication, resilience, and contributions to our shared success.


By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

As summer approaches, it’s important to stay vigilant and prioritize safety — for yourself, your team, and the people you protect.

Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind during the hot months:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout your shift, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks that can dehydrate you.

2. Dress Appropriately

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and protective gear suited for hot weather whenever possible. Use hats and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.

3. Protect Against Sun Exposure

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re sweating or sweating heavily.

4. Recognize Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses

Be alert for symptoms like heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, or cramps. If you or a colleague experience these, seek shade, hydrate, and seek medical attention if necessary.

5. Take Frequent Breaks

Use break times to rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Don’t ignore signs of overheating.

6. Use Proper Lifting Techniques

Hot weather can cause fatigue; always follow proper protocols for lifting and moving equipment or materials.

7. Maintain Communication

Keep your team updated on weather conditions and any emerging hazards.

8. Promote Personal Wellness

Encourage self-care, healthy eating, and adequate sleep to maintain energy and alertness during your shift.

Remember:

Your safety is our top priority! Stay alert, stay hydrated, and look out for signs of heat stress. Let’s keep our team safe this summer season.

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