In recent years, the increasing complexity of criminal activity and the demand for more effective policing strategies has necessitated a shift from reactive investigations to proactive crime prevention.
With this in mind, since June, the Slave Lake RCMP General Investigation Section has been utilizing more proactive crime reduction techniques to address the shift in priorities. Recognizing the benefits of this work and the need for continuous activity, the Slave Lake RCMP has decided to permanently shift resources by moving several members into a new Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) which will focus on proactive strategies, data-driven policing, and community collaboration to help reduce crime and enhance public safety.
Unlike General Investigations Sections, which primarily focus on responding to reports of crimes and investigating after the fact, the RCMP CRU teams focus on proactive approaches such as targeting high risk priority offenders, performing covert surveillance of noted targets based on available data, and conducting warrant round ups. In many communities a small group of individuals are frequently responsible for a large amount of crime. While crime rates in Slave Lake remain relatively low, not changing significantly from the past few years, the CRU team will aim to reduce crime rates even more by targeting priority offenders who cause the most harm in the community.
The Slave Lake CRU will also engage with the community, including local business, non-profits, and community groups to help nurture relationships that are necessary for effective crime prevention.
The ultimate objectives of the Slave Lake CRU are:
- Reduce Crime Rates: By focusing on crime prevention and early intervention, the CRU aims to reduce overall crime rates within the municipal detachment's jurisdiction.
- Enhance Community Safety: Strengthening community ties and fostering trust to build safer neighborhoods.
- Efficient Resource Utilization: Allocating resources more effectively by focusing on high-risk areas and repeat offenders.
- Data-Driven Policing: Utilizing crime analysis and intelligence to identify patterns and deploy resources proactively.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Working closely with other law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to address crime holistically.
"The transition from a General Investigations to a Crime Reduction Unit represents a significant shift in policing philosophy, focusing on proactive crime prevention rather than solely on reactive investigations," said Staff Sergeant Casey Bruyns, Detachment Commander of the Slave Lake RCMP. "By adopting a structured approach, focusing on strategic goals and fostering community collaboration, the CRU can effectively reduce crime, enhance public safety, and build stronger community relations."