An update on MHPS drone use, police continue to resolve drug houses in the city

It was an issue for some time and patrols were assigned to resolve the file.

“So we were happy to report today that there’s been no activity at that house for a period of time. Although there is another one on 21^st Street NE that’s a huge concern to us and neighbours in the area. We’ve noticed a large spike in crime in and around that house. Stolen vehicles recovered, suspicious persons, and stolen property.”

Secondiak says police will be focusing on the 21^st Street NE house as well as several others in the city.

The city fluctuates between 11-12 drug houses and there are 7 today, he said.

“You have to be patient with us because it does take time to collect information and data on some of these houses.”

Secondiak says to call the police service every time you see something illegal, suspicious activity, breach of bylaw, or provincial traffic act offense.

Meantime, the police commission also had a presentation on the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), also known as drones.

The drones were added to police equipment in January of this year.

Secondiak says the drones have been excellent so far and have been used several times.

“Really for exigent circumstances, missing persons, there was a high-risk event in Police Point Park involving a firearm, and of course to search the river for somebody who unfortunately passed away. So huge advantages they’re great pieces of equipment. They’re on loan to Medicine Hat Police Service so the cost was nothing so we’re pleased to have them here and we’re excited to see where they could go in the future.”

He adds that the drones are mostly used for collisions.

“I believe four fatalities this year and it was used at all of those fatalities. So they’re excellent for measuring scenes, as well as locating people, and property.”

After one year, Secondiak says MHPS will look over the data to see the deployments, how many times they were used, and if there are other applications for the drones.

Adding that the program looks positive thus far.

Secondiak also told Chat News there will be a news release out next week on the details and update on the Downtown Patrol Unit.

by Chantal Wagner

An update on MHPS drone use, police continue to resolve drug houses in the city

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