Michael’s Motel boarded up and closed, says MHPS

Jul 21, 2022 | 3:31 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The premises are now boarded up at what police have called a “hotspot” of various quality of life crimes in Riverside.

“Last night was the culmination of a collaborative community policing effort which resulted in the closure of the Michael’s Motel,” said MHPS Sgt. Harley Kesler on Thursday.

Police took a more targeted approach to the area in May after an increase in criminal activity was noticed. They worked with building codes officers, Alberta Health Services, the local fire department the property owner and lawyers to respond to the issue and concerns of nearby residents.

Illegal tenants were removed from the property in mid-June and legal tenants were told an eviction was underway. Kesler said part of the process was offering connections to services and outreach to try to help find those residents find a new place to live.

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Kesler said the community policing effort is being considered a success but there are multiple factors at play in Riverside and not everything can be linked to Michael’s Motel as far as the quality of life crimes go. There’s more work to be done, he said.

“You know, you can never take your foot off the gas. It’s really one of the key parts of any successful community is assessment and relentless followup to ensure that you’re still having the desired results.”

According to Kesler, the property is currently in receivership.

by Chris Brown

Michael’s Motel boarded up and closed, says MHPS

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