By CHAT News Today

Province commits $10 million to combat rural crime

Mar 9, 2018 | 11:39 AM

EDMONTON, AB — The provincial government has announced additional funding to help combat rural crime.

During a news conference Friday morning, Justice Minister and Solicitor General Kathleen Ganley announced the province will be investing $10 million dollars to hire more RCMP officers and Crown prosecutors in rural communities.

“All Albertans deserve to be safe in their homes and their communities,” Ganley said in a statement. “With help from our valued partners in the RCMP, we have developed a detailed plan to protect rural Albertans and their property.

“While there’s no single, easy solution to fix rural crime, our strategy puts several important tools in the crime-fighting toolbox. More civilian staff means more frontline officers on the street, while more Crown prosecutors will mean more timely access to justice.”

The plan includes $8 million to hire 39 new RCMP officers and 40 civilian staff, and $2 million to hire up to 10 Crown prosecutors who will focus solely on rural crime.

Medicine Hat company drawing in clients with witty signage

Apr 16, 2024

Medicine Hat College holding event for missing and murdered Indigenous women awareness day

Apr 16, 2024

'An awesome, good feeling': National Volunteer Week underway in Medicine Hat

Apr 15, 2024

The announcement also includes support for crime reduction units, which will see specially trained officers will focus on arresting prolific offenders, and is based on a successful pilot project in Central Alberta. Enhanced technology, improved communication and coordination between agencies and specialized police intelligence to target organized crime were also mentioned during the announcement.

“The support announced today by Minister Ganley represents a significant contribution to the safety of Albertans,” said Todd Shean, Deputy Commissioner with the Alberta RCMP. “This funding will enable us to greatly expand our crime-reduction efforts across Alberta and strengthen our criminal intelligence program. If you are committing crime in Alberta, we will identify you and we will stop you.”