WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY

Transcription

1 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY Royal Canadian Mounted Police Gendarmerie royale du Canada

2 Wood Buffalo Police Headquarters Fort Chipewyan Satellite Detachment

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM OFFICER IN CHARGE... 2 MESSAGE FROM OPERATIONS OFFICER... 3 MESSAGE FROM OPERATIONS SUPPORT & INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES OFFICER... 4 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR WOOD BUFFALO AT A GLANCE WOOD BUFFALO RCMP UNITS... 6 WOOD BUFFALO MAP STRATEGIC ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW MISSION, VISION AND VALUES COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC) SERVICE DELIVERY MODEL CORE FUNCTIONS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS COMMUNITY POLICING ALERT-CFSEU TRAFFIC SERVICES FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION SERVICES (FIS) POLICE DOG SERVICES (PDS) DRUG SECTION CRIME REDUCTION TEAM # CRIME REDUCTION TEAM # DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSISTANCE TEAM VICTIM SERVICES UNIT AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS OPERATIONAL FACTS AND FIGURES ORGANIZATIONAL CHART CRIME RATES AND CALLS FOR SERVICE HUMAN RESOURCES SELECT CRIMINAL CODE OFFENCES MOVING FORWARD: WHAT S UP & COMING CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS & VSU REGIMENTAL BALL SUMMER GAMES... 35

4 MESSAGE FROM SUPERINTENDENT BOB COUTURE ( OFFICER IN CHARGE) As the Officer in Charge of the Wood Buffalo RCMP Detachment and on behalf of the members, municipal support staff and volunteers it is with great pride that I am able to present to you the inaugural copy of the Wood Buffalo RCMP 2012 Annual Report to our Community. The Wood Buffalo Detachment accomplished many successes and achievements in 2012, thanks to the efforts of our dedicated police officers, municipal support staff, public service employees, victim services employees and volunteers. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the continued support and encouragement received throughout the year from Mayor Melissa Blake, members of the Regional Council, Chief Administration Officer Glen Laubenstein, Deputy Chief Administration Officer Brian Makey, and of course the citizens of our region. The Wood Buffalo Detachment is committed to work in partnership with all the communities that we serve, by delivering a high quality policing service to our community. We strive to be transparent and accessible while identifying the needs and expectations of the community. As we move into 2013, it is my intention to continue to further develop community partnerships and relationship building particularly with our First Nation Communities and our rapidly growing Diverse Community. The year 2013 is a significant point of history for Policing within our region. The mile stone that we will be celebrating is the centennial (100 years) of the first permanent establishment of an RCMP Detachment in Fort McMurray in I would like to extend an invite to all the citizens of our region to participate in this celebration throughout the year, the highlight will be a Freedom of the City Parade which will be held on Saturday September 21, We look forward to continue to work in partnerships with all the citizens of our community, to ensure that we have a safe and vibrant community for all to live in, work and play. Superintendent Bob Couture - Officer in Charge Wood Buffalo Detachment 2 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

5 MESSAGE FROM INSPECTOR RON MAKAR ( OPERATIONS OFFICER ) I manage the RCMP s general duty front line policing response for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This pertains to the 4 watches that provide high quality police service 24/7 to the Urban Service area and a vast rural area, which includes the communities of Anzac, Janvier, Conklin and Fort McKay. The Watches are the grass roots level of police services and their primary role is the investigation of Federal, Criminal Code and Provincial statutes. The General Duties members in partnership with the Crime Prevention/Victim Services also are proactively involved in community initiatives such as the Positive Youth Interaction program. In addition to General Duties I am also responsible for policing operations in the community of Fort Chipewyan and the ever expanding Oil and Gas industry, which spans through the entire rural service area. This highly diverse service industry is the main economic driver of our area and brings with it its own unique policing priorities which are monitored by our Industry Liaison NCO. Inspector Ron Makar - Operations Officer Wood Buffalo Detachment 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 3

6 MESSAGE FROM INSPECTOR ROB MCCLOY (OPERATIONS SUPPORT & INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES OFFICER ) The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is a vibrant community of which the police are an integral part of. I oversee various units within the Wood Buffalo RCMP which include the Police Dog Service, Community Policing, Traffic, Serious Crime, General Investigation Section, Forensic Identification Section and Drug Section. All of these units play an important part in providing a complete and effective policing service to the region. These units are ones that provide the support, assistance and expertise to the front line police officers in General Duty on a day to day basis. Having worked in a variety of communities during my 24 years of service with the RCMP I can honestly say that Wood Buffalo is among the best areas to live and work in. This holds especially true given the upcoming Wood Buffalo RCMP Centennial Celebration. Inspector Rob McCloy - Operations Support & Investigative Services Officer Wood Buffalo Detachment 4 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

7 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR On behalf of Regional Council, I am pleased to present the Wood Buffalo RCMP s 2012 Report to the Community. As a Regional Council we aim to build a dynamic, strong and healthy community. Fundamental to this, and certainly a priority for Council and Administration, is safety and security. As you read this document, you will see the many initiatives that the Wood Buffalo RCMP undertook in 2012 to ensure the safety and security for our citizens. Whether it s crime prevention, law enforcement or public education this report is a testament to the dedicated service of our local police force. I also recognize that safety and security is the responsibility of all citizens, so I applaud the partnerships that our local detachment has fostered with other stakeholders in the community and I look forward to this continued collaboration. While this report is a synthesis of 2012 activities, I must acknowledge the centennial celebrations that are occurring in There have been phenomenal changes in the region over the last 100 years, but during that time the faithful service of the Wood Buffalo RCMP has remained. Congratulations on this milestone and I look forward to many years of service ahead! I extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to Superintendent Bob Couture and the men and women of the Wood Buffalo RCMP for your hard work during the last year and I wish all of you another successful year. Mayor Melissa Blake Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 5

8 01 WOOD BUFFALO AT A GLANCE WOOD BUFFALO RCMP UNITS GENERAL DUTY The General Duty component of Wood Buffalo s Policing Service is the largest, comprising of 4 Watches. Each watch is managed by a Senior Non- Commissioned Officer of the RCMP at the Staff Sergeant rank. Watches are responsible for providing the initial response to calls for service and investigation of Federal, Criminal Code and Provincial Statutes over a 12 hour period. In addition to investigative responsibilities, General Duty members are involved in proactive enforcement and community policing initiatives such as the school visitation program in all communities of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. General Duty members work closely with specialized units in the Detachment to guarantee investigations are conducted in a thorough manner enhancing service to the community. INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES The Wood Buffalo Detachment Investigative Services is comprised of several smaller units that have a variety of functions. The group of units under Investigative Services includes Persons Crimes: responsible for investigating serious crimes against people such as sexual assaults and homicides, Crime Reduction Teams: with a focus on certain crimes such as property offences and community safety and Drug Section who focus on drug related crimes and the selling of illicit drugs. Within this unit there is also a Domestic Violence Team (DVAT) who work primarily with victims of domestic violence. Investigative Services is a supporting unit to the General Duty Uniform area and provides the experience required on more serious and complex investigations. SUPPORT SERVICES There are many smaller units within the Wood Buffalo Detachment that provide support services to the larger units such as General Duty and Investigative Services. Many of these units such as Community Policing, 6 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

9 Forensic Identification Section, Police Dog Services and Traffic Services, provide an important service to not just the detachment but to the community as a whole. All these units are effective players in the detachment policing model and complement a proper service delivery to the community. FORT CHIPEWYAN SATELITE OFFICE Fort Chipewyan Satellite Office is comprised of a Sergeant, four Constables and one Public Service employee who provides administrative support. Fort Chipewyan Satellite provides community policing service to the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation as well as the Fort Chipewyan Métis community. The Satellite Detachment s response to community needs is augmented by support units from Wood Buffalo when required REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 7

10 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO 8 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

11 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 9

12 02 STRATEGIC ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW MISSION, VISION AND VALUES The RCMP is Canada s national police service. Proud of our traditions and confident in meeting future challenges, we commit to preserve the peace, uphold the law and provide quality service in partnership with our communities. RCMP MANDATE To enforce laws, prevent crime and maintain peace, order and security. VISION We are a progressive, proactive and innovative organization We provide the highest quality service through dynamic leadership, education and technology in partnership with the diverse communities we serve We are accountable and efficient through shared decision-making We ensure a healthy work environment that encourages team building, open communication and mutual respect We promote safe communities We demonstrate leadership in the pursuit of excellence CORE VALUES Recognizing the dedication of all employees, we will create and maintain an environment of individual safety, well-being and development. We are guided by: Integrity Compassion Honesty Respect Professionalism Accountability OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU Unbiased and respectful treatment of all people Accountability Mutual problem solving Cultural sensitivity Enhancement of public safety Partnerships and consultation Open and honest communication Effective and efficient use of resources Quality and timely service 10 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

13 COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC) The goal of the Community Advisory Committee is to act as a resource to the RCMP concerning policing matters affecting the citizens of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. The discussion of concerns, brought forward by the committee, contribute to the effective and efficient delivery of policing services in the region and the promotion of community safety. The Community Advisory Committee is a committee comprised of representatives from the RCMP, Bylaw Services, and citizens of the community representing various groups such as, business owners, youth, seniors, school districts, and cultural communities. The committee meets on a monthly basis, anyone interested in being a part of this committee can contact the Community Policing Coordinator at WOOD BUFFALO MISSION STATEMENT : To provide sensitive, responsive, professional policing service, cooperatively with the community, to enhance the level of security and livability in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, within a healthy work environment REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 11

14 SERVICE DELIVERY MODEL The Wood Buffalo RCMP service delivery model is focused on crime reduction. Three fundamental policing philosophies remain the cornerstones of our policing operations and approach. COMMUNITY-BASED POLICING Community-Based Policing, as the name suggests, is deeply rooted in the belief that crime and public safety issues are a shared responsibility between police and the community. As such, communities play an integral role in any policing strategy and should be engaged as active partners in the delivery of police programs and services operating within the traditional policing model structure (ex. from crime prevention and education to intelligence, investigation, enforcement and victim support). Policing, in partnership with the community, calls for broad community involvement in the identification of community problems and policing needs, as well as in the design and implementation of solutions. In a community policing capacity, the police strive to be more than mere reactive agents of law enforcement. Rather, emphasis is placed on positive police community interaction to foster dialogue, build relationships and ultimately mobilize partnerships within the community that will result in a more collective and proactive response to local crime and safety issues (and the underlying causes). At the heart of the community policing philosophy is consultation between and RCMP and community stakeholders local residents and business owners, community stakeholders local residents and business owners, community non-profit organizations, City Council and other public sector agencies at all levels of government. In Wood Buffalo, this is achieved through a variety of mechanisms, including regular RCMP community consultative group meetings at the District level and Detachment participation on Integrated Service Teams and other community-based task forces or working group committees. INTERLLIGENCE-LED POLICING Intelligence-led policing acknowledges that research and analysis and evidence-based decision-making are critical to effective and efficient policing (and problem solving). Under intelligence-led policing, reliable and timely crime analysis becomes one of the fundamental drivers in the mobilization of 12 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

15 both police and community resources (ex. proactively targeting enforcement, investigation, and prevention measures around habitual offenders, high crime areas, and crime causation factors). Intelligence applies to both the tactical and strategic levels and, when used properly, can help to not only identify patterns and linkages (the who, when and where of crime) and assist in solving investigations or predicting and preventing future crime, but also to understand the relationship between crime and community (ex. the complex social and environmental issues that underlie many community crime and safety problems) so that we can assist in mobilizing community resources towards an effective response. INTEGRATED POLICING Integrated Policing recognizes that greater effectiveness and efficiencies (and thus better outcomes) can be realized with a higher level of interoperability among law enforcement personnel and our criminal justice system partners. Our ability to seamlessly integrate police services across our Detachment and other policing jurisdictions with common public safety issues and policing priorities will enable us to maximize our resources, develop a greater understanding of the environments in which we operate, and increased our ability to respond in a more timely and well coordinated fashion (ex. integrated, rapidly deployable teams to address issues of a cross-cutting nature) REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 13

16 CORE FUNCTIONS The Detachment responds to both emergency and non-emergency calls, conducts and participates in criminal investigations, intelligence gathering and enforcement operations, and works to reduce the impact of crime on the community through education and outreach initiatives focused on increasing community awareness of crime prevention strategies and opportunities. The following operational activities remain the cornerstone of the police services we deliver: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION We contribute to the prevention of crime and community problem solving by engaging and supporting communities in the application of various crime prevention practices. INTELLIGENCE We obtain information, which we analyze to generate intelligence that guides our operational and administrative decisions. INVESTIGATION We investigate to uncover facts and determine the most appropriate action to take. CALL RESPONSE We enforce laws trough the laying of charges or by applying alternative measures. Enforcement efforts can be either reactive (ex. in response to emergency calls for service) or proactive. PROTECTION We provide general protection (ex. at special events) to help keep communities and residents safe and secure and assist in the protection of international dignitaries and designated Canadians. 14 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

17 STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK PROLIFIC OFFENDERS 3% reduction in crime rate associated to persons & property offences. YOUTH 20% increase in positive youth interactions. The Strategic Framework establishes the direction of the organization. It helps lay the groundwork for a long-term planning approach that better aligns the Detachment activities and deployments of resources with key policing priorities identified by our clients, partners and stakeholders STRATEGIC PRIORITIES TRAFFIC: To reduce the number of traffic collisions involving death and/ or injury. DRUGS: To disrupt illegal drug activity. PROLIFIC OFFENDERS: To reduce crime rates associated with persons and property offences. YOUTH: To engage youth positively in efforts to reduce youth involvement in the criminal justice system. STRATEGIC PERFOMANCE MEASURES TRAFFIC 10% increase in provincial and criminal code driving offences. DRUGS 10% increase in controlled drug and substances act (CDSA) offences. STRATEGIC GOAL The ultimate goal of the Detachment is to ensure Safe Homes and Safe Communities and reduce crime in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 15

18 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES The following represent the strategic objectives identified for each of the four priority areas. TRAFFIC To increase enforcement and education efforts with respect to impaired driving, speeding, occupant restraints as well as distracted driving. DRUGS To increase street level operations increasing overall charges of trafficking of Controlled Drug and Substances Act (CDSA). Initiate information sessions with various detachment units to facilitate knowledge and information sharing regarding drug subculture in the Wood Buffalo area. PROLIFIC OFFENDERS Public Awareness Programs delivered through means of providing media releases, attending/facilitating safety meetings with various businesses, providing school talks. Maintained a list of Prolific Offenders for Auto theft/break and Enter and follow-up was conducted by means of compliance checks. An analysis was done of the community and various trouble spots were identified. These areas were subject to month-long projects whereby members would conduct increased patrols and liaise with outside agencies to reduce crime and the fear of crime. YOUTH Continue partnerships in the delivery of drug education awareness and prevention programs aimed at youth and their families (i.e. Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE), Kids & Drugs workshops for parents, etc). Enhance efforts to identify and address youth at risk, root causes of high risk or other related behaviors and explore opportunities for early intervention. Continue efforts of positive youth engagement by supporting increased uniform presence in schools, parks and other areas where youth are present. 16 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

19 SAFE & SECURE REGION SAFE HOMES AND SAFE COMMUNITIES PARTNERSHIP COLLABORATION CONSISTENCY ACCOUNTABILITY AWARENESS & EDUCATION SAFETY LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONALISM COMMUNICATION TRAFFIC SAFETY YOUTH PROPERTY CRIME PERSON CRIME ORGANIZED CRIME OPERATIONAL COMMITMENT WOOD BUFFALO STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 17

20 HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS COMMUNITY POLICING Promoting safe communities within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo through community engagement, public education and crime prevention In 2012, over 560 school visits took place by members of the Wood Buffalo RCMP within urban and rural schools. The School Liaison Officer Program allows the RCMP to build positive relationships with students and staff, and focuses on prevention, partnerships and education. The DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program enables police officers to build rapport with youth and provide them with information on drugs, substance abuse and making healthy choices. This ten week program was delivered to 11 schools within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, with over 450 students receiving the benefits of the program. The RCMP s mascot, Monty the Safety Bear, was heavily involved in community patrols throughout During the winter months, Monty made appearances at the skating rink at MacDonald Island Park and on various hills to take part in some tobogganing with youth. Monty also made numerous appearances at Vista Ridge Ski Hill, interacting with youth and their families The Wood Buffalo Community Policing Unit partnered with other community agencies to participate in the PARTY (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) Program. The PARTY Program is a one-day injury awareness and prevention program geared towards grade 9 students who learn that every action has consequences. The program highlights that choices people make can have adverse effects on their lives and those of others. The overall goal is to provide young people with information about trauma that will enable them to recognize potential injury-producing situations, make prevention-oriented choices, and adopt behaviors that minimize unnecessary risk. The day consists of a mock collision scene, presentations from Victim Services and the RCMP on the process of notifying next of kin, a survivor describes how being involved in a major collision changed her life. The youth also get to participate in mock emergency room scenarios and a tour of the morgue. They also participate in hands-on activities such as fatal vision goggles, and concussion goggles, they get to experience first hand the effects of impairment, distraction, as well as what it would be like to live with a life-altering injury. In 2012, the program was presented to over 800 people in both urban and rural areas including Fort Chipewyan. 18 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

21 while partaking in tubing with the children. During the warmer months, Monty the Safety Bear could be seen regularly at local playgrounds, parks, water parks and recreation facilities. The Wood Buffalo Community Policing Unit delivered over 50 presentations to various schools and youth groups in These presentations covered a wide range of topics such as Bullying, Stranger Danger, Internet Safety, Bicycle Safety, Personal Safety, along with many others. Jam, Wellness Smorgasbord, Curl for Kids, Metis Fest, National Aboriginal Day, Treaty Days, June Bug Festival, Law Day, Heritage Day, Spring & Fall Trade Show, Zombie Run, just to name a few. The Wood Buffalo RCMP also participated in the Canada Day Parade, Remembrance Day Ceremony and the Santa Clause Parade. Project Keep Straight is a joint partnership between the Drug Section of Wood Buffalo RCMP and the Fort McMurray Oil Barons. The two agencies teamed up and travelled to Vancouver s eastside to learn about illegal drug use and street activity. Following their return back to Fort McMurray, the RCMP and Oil Barons deliver a presentation to Grade 5 and 6 students with the goal of helping the youth make healthy choices and to resist the pressures to engage in high risk behaviors such as illegal drug use. This program reached 9 schools, and included 15 presentations in The Positive Ticketing Program was reintroduced in the Fort McMurray area in The Fort McMurray Oil Barons kindly donated game tickets which the Wood Buffalo RCMP handed out to local youth conducting themselves in a safe and courteous manor. The Community Policing Unit patrolled various recreation facilities and schools handing out positive tickets to youth who were wearing appropriate protective gear while skiing, snowboarding, riding their bicycles, etc. Positive tickets were also handed out to youth who were crossing streets at designated crosswalks and wearing their seatbelts while in the car. In 2012, over 350 positive tickets were handed out to local youth. In 2012, the Wood Buffalo Community Policing Unit partnered with various community agencies to participate in community events such as Family Safety Day, Girl Empowerment, Girl Power, Mega Boyz, Summer Safety 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 19

22 ALERT - CFSEU Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team s (ALERT) Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) of Wood Buffalo investigates, disrupts and dismantles organized and serious crime, such as drug trafficking and gang activity, in the Wood Buffalo Region. Comprised of RCMP officers, the team often conducts long-term, in-depth undercover operations that have a significant impact on community safety. In 2012, the team laid 173 charges against 35 people and seized 1 million dollars in illicit drugs. CFSEU-Wood Buffalo urges the public to call its gang information hotline at (GANG) to report any information that might assist the police in its crackdown on gang and organized crime. To remain anonymous, suspicious activity can also be reported to Crime Stoppers at (TIPS). 20 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

23 TRAFFIC SERVICES Traffic safety is one of the RCMP s main priorities and still one of the public s number one concerns. In 2012, the Wood Buffalo RCMP Traffic Unit underwent some changes and a clear mandate was identified to reduce collisions involving loss of life, injury & property damage. Traffic Safety successes relies on the equal focus of three fundamental pillars: Engineering, Enforcement, and Education. In 2012, the education component received a huge boost when the Coalition for Safer 63 and 881 purchased a roll over simulator for the community. This equipment assists greatly in educating motorists on the importance of using occupant restraints properly. The Traffic unit also visited industry and civilian groups to deliver presentations on Wood Buffalo Traffic Unit and the value of Engineering Life Space. In partnership with the Wood Buffalo Community Policing, several press releases were released each month regarding traffic education and traffic awareness. vehicles. In each case, a major case management and advance investigation is initiated, and the Traffic unit built a new Criminal Crash Investigator Team (CCIT) to help in these complicated investigations. Investigating these complex incidents properly is necessary; it allows the Traffic unit to learn about the causes which in turn helps the unit focus on tackling the issues. Throughout the past year, studies were conducted to identify what the main causes of collision were, their locations, and the time of day, and day of the week they most often occurred. To address these questions, the schedules of the members within the Traffic unit were adjusted to target the problematic days and times. Members of the Traffic unit were focused on the root causes of our collisions which included impaired drivers, speeding, not wearing occupant restrain properly and distracted driving. Each month operations were organized with our local law enforcement partners to target the problem areas. During 2012, The Traffic unit was tasked to investigate all major injuries and fatal collisions. The unit also investigates any serious collisions involving Police In 2012, the efforts of the Wood Buffalo Traffic Unit were very successful; traffic fatalities were reduced from 11 in 2011 to 9 in 2012 with the total number of collisions going up by only 134 from 2011 to Overall, these statistics are good based on a population increase of 11% from 2011 to 2012 and slippery road conditions started sooner in 2012 than in This year the Integrated Traffic Unit (ITU) was created; this unit is a team comprised of Provincial RCMP Traffic members and Provincial Sheriffs. The combined efforts of the ITU and the Wood Buffalo RCMP General Duty members in traffic enforcement on highways 63 and 881 made a huge impact on the success of the Traffic unit however the success of safer roads is also the result of members of the public driving more responsibly! 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 21

24 FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION SERVICES (FIS) The role of the Forensic Identification Services unit s is to attend crime scenes to collect physical evidence, such as fingerprints and other potentially crucial information to assist in advancing investigations. The Wood Buffalo Forensic Identification Services unit is currently a 4 member unit. In 2012, members of the Forensic Identification Services unit assisted with more than 300 cases in the Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Some of these cases include, but are not limited to homicides, member involved shootings, sexual assaults, forcible confinement, aggravated assault, missing persons, and passing of wares or services/distribute unauthorized trademark case. As always, FIS spends a lot of resources examining stolen vehicles. In 2012, Forensic Identification Services delivered multiple presentations to the community. These presentations are useful in providing education and insight into what the unit does and what techniques are used to provide support to the members of the Wood Buffalo Detachment. Many of the presentations were delivered to school aged children, who attend the detachment for a tour. The children get to tour the FIS lab, and observe several techniques being done. These techniques include: casting footwear with dental stone, casting tool marks with forensic casting material, developing fingerprints on a variety of surfaces using fingerprint powders, and learning a bit about the fingerprint itself, and how it is used to provide evidence in court. The Forensic Identification Services unit also provides training to local groups in the community that may be able to utilize some of the techniques used for evidence searching and preservation. A training session was conducted for Search and Rescue, which included information on working as a part of a team with the RCMP. Search and Rescue is often called upon to assist the RCMP with large scale searches. The training session FIS provided included how to spot evidence in a search, what to do with that evidence, and how to process that evidence if required. FIS also assists other units and detachments in the province by providing training. In 2012, a member of Wood Buffalo FIS attended Edmonton to assist with instructing a Property Crime Examiner course. 22 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

25 POLICE DOG SERVICES (PDS) The Wood Buffalo Police Dog Services is a unit comprised of 3 fully trained General Duty Dog Handlers and their respective Police Service Dogs, which are PSD Radon, PSD Angus and PSD Case. All of our General Duty Service Dogs are German Shepherds and the dogs of choice in the RCMP due to their overall temperament for the profiles which we utilize our dogs for. The profiles each PSD (Police Service Dog) must successfully validate on an annual basis are, Criminal Apprehension, Tracking, Narcotics/Bombs Detection, Small Article Search, and Alley Searches. Each of our dogs are also trained in the ability to carry out gun searches, field (evidence searches), and building searches. This past year the Wood Buffalo Police Dog Services have been involved in extensive training within Fort McMurray and elsewhere. This training includes, but is not limited to, PDS Officer Safety training, PDS CTOMS (Critical Operation Medical Solutions), Emergency Response Team (ERT) Bush training/officer Survival training. This past year, the Wood Buffalo PDS has been called upon extensively to provide support to the members of the frontline in various calls for service. These calls include, Armed Robberies, Armed and Barricaded subjects, High Risk Building Entries, Search Warrants, Drug Searches, Bomb Searches, Stolen Vehicles, to name a few. It should be noted, that 2 of our members with Wood Buffalo Detachment are currently in the Quarrie/Imprinting process and have been raising our pups with the intent of becoming full time Police Dog Handlers one day. In raising their pups, these members are expected to socialize our dogs to strangers, large/small crowds, and other animals. Furthermore, our pups are also familiarized with various environments that any dog may encounter in an operational environment; this type of exposure would include water, slippery surfaces, mesh surfaces, bushes, urban areas, traffic, and loud noises, etc. By carrying out these exercises, our pups have a much better chance of completing their full time training, which is usually by the time they reach months REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 23

26 CRIME REDUCTION TEAM #1 PROPERTY CRIMES DRUG SECTION The Wood Buffalo Detachment Drug Section is mandated to investigate drug offences within the RMWB. The unit investigates all types of drug offences within the RMWB but also works with other police agencies when the need arises. The members of this unit are trained in a variety of drug investigation techniques. This past year has seen the unit involved in several investigations both as a single unit but also working closely with the ALERT Unit that is also part of the Wood Buffalo Detachment. There have been many successes where illegal drugs have been taken off the street and person, charged with a variety of offences. This unit is not all about enforcement either. This year, like in previous years, has seen members of the Drug unit partnering up with the Oil Barons Hockey Club and working with them on a program called Project Keep Straight. This partnership has the unit members working with some of the hockey players in going out to local schools and presenting a short film on drug use and speaking to the youth in the community on the dangers of drugs. This program has been a great benefit to the community and the youth. Crime Reduction Team #1 Property Crime has a specific mandate: to reduce and investigate property crimes that occur within the RMWB. The officers attached to this unit are specialized in such areas as auto theft and other specific property related offences. Beyond just doing enforcement work and tracking down suspects, the unit is actively involved in providing crime prevention tips to reduce property crime. Within the last year numerous presentations have been given to schools and local business. The presentations involve educational awareness in such areas as auto theft and other property related crime offences that cause concern for many in the community. Some examples of the work done by this group, includes dismantling a large shoplifting ring that had spring up in Wood Buffalo. In the end several people were arrested and charged. Overall the unit has been successful in recovered over $500,000 worth of stolen goods and recovered over 80 vehicles. This all resulted in the charging of 15 individuals and the laying of 228 charges. The Property Crime Unit throughout these efforts and liaising with other police agencies, have been able to reduce property crime in the RMWB and work towards providing the educational tools to the community to assist in reducing crime. 24 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

27 CRIME REDUCTION TEAM #2 Crime Reduction Team #2 s mandate focused on community safety in a variety of ways. This unit worked closely with different agencies and organizations in order to develop and move forward with community safety strategies. Throughout the year the unit concentrated on developing and implementing the Prolific Offender Program. The Prolific Offender Program looked at the small number of people in the region that committed the majority of the crime and develop enforcement initiatives that would work towards apprehending these individuals. This program has proven to be successful in a variety of ways and has assisted in arresting several of these individuals. Along with this program the unit has worked hard to seek out and arrest people who are wanted on outstanding arrest warrants. These warrants are varied but in the end there is a need to bring these individuals in front of the courts. This program, overseen by this unit, has also proven to be beneficial and effective in arresting many of these individuals who were in the community with outstanding arrest warrants. While enforcement is not the only aspect of the units focus. Throughout the past year they have built an ongoing partnership with the Alberta Probation Services. The liaison has assisted both the police and Probation Services in making sure subjects who are on probation orders by the courts are in compliance with those conditions. The excellent partnership between the two agencies has proven to be a benefit to both. As well the aspect of community safety has been high on the list of this unit. Increased patrols in the downtown core have seen a beneficial outcome. Patrols of hotspots in the downtown core and some of the outlying areas has an overall benefit for the community to increase presence in these known hotspots REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 25

28 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSISTANCE TEAM The Wood Buffalo Detachment Domestic Violence Assistance Team is a unit imbedded within the Investigative Services Section. This unit is comprised of a Corporal, 3 Constable Investigators and a Social Worker. The unit concentrates on domestic violence investigations that occur in the region. The members assigned to this unit are experts in the field and provide guidance to other units both within the detachment and outside the region in many different capacities. Throughout the past year the unit has developed and implemented a High Risk Team that looks at the high risk domestic violence cases that are proceeding to court. This type of initiative only enhances the service being provided by the unit and in the end assists in providing het victim with added assistance. The crime of domestic violence is one that unfortunately is one that causes harm to many members of the family and also takes on different forms. The unit noticed this and developed and provided a conference on Culturally Driven Violence. This conference was attended by numerous agencies and groups from throughout the province and some from outside Alberta as well. The sharing of information is critical in order to develop strategies to reduce crimes such as this. The ongoing work done by the unit is a benefit to the community and detachment as a whole. VICTIM SERVICES UNIT The Fort McMurray Victim Services Unit provides immediate emotional and physical support to victims of crime and tragedy from the time of crisis through and beyond conclusion of the court process; they also provide information to victims on financial benefits, restitution and victim impact statements. In 2012, the Victim Services Unit assisted with 1063 new files. Not only does the Victim Service Unit provide support to victims, they are also active in the community providing presentations on topics such as bullying, elder abuse, dating violence, etc. The Victim Services Unit also participates in various community events and projects such as the PARTY program, and Safe School Zone Project just to name a few. 26 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

29 04 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS MEDAL OF BRAVERY Cpl. Andrew Ashton Cpl. Byron Wilkins Dion Lefebvre Civilian Tyler Fowler Civilian MEDAL OF HONOUR Sgt. Rodney Klenk DIAMOND JUBILEE MEDAL Supt. Bob Couture Insp. Ron Makar S/Sgt. Keith Durance Sgt. Tamara Samson Sgt. Chan Dara Sgt. Jennifer Ebert Cpl. Adam Schedlosky MR. DAVID JANVIER has recently been appointed to the RCMP K Division Commanding Officers Aboriginal Advisory Council. The council meets with the Commanding Officer of K Division and discusses RCMP operational and policy issues within Alberta s Aboriginal Communities. Mr. Janvier is a local leader who has lived, worked, and raised his children in our region. He would like to help the younger generations understand the important role of the RCMP and encourage an existing positive relationship between the Aboriginal community and the RCMP REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 27

30 05 OPERATIONAL FACTS & FIGURES WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHART 2012 OFFICER IN CHARGE OPERATIONS OFFICER OPERATIONS SUPPORT INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES OFFICER ADMINISTRATIVE NCO Industry Liaison Persons Crime Team 1 Traffic Section Professional Standards A Watch Persons Crime Team 2 Forensic Identification Court Liaison B Watch DVAT Police Dog Service Administrative Support C Watch Crime Reduction Team 1 Community Policing Cell Block D Watch Crime Reduction Team 2 Victim Services Training Section Fort Chipewyan Drug Section Media Relations Finance & Administration ALERT Emergency Planning 28 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

31 CRIME RATES & CALLS FOR SERVICE CRIME RATES AND CALLS FOR SERVICE CALLS FOR SERVICE BY AREA URBAN SERVICE AREA 26,037 RURAL SERVICE AREA 5, REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 29

32 HUMAN RESOURCES AUTHORIZED STRENGH AVERAGE OF YEARS OF SERVICE (BY RANK) POLICE TO POPULATION 30 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

33 SELECT CRIMINAL CODE OFFENCES WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT TOTAL CRIMINAL CODE OFFENCES % change urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB total criminal code offences 8,307 1,553 9,860 9,278 1,424 10,702-10% -9% -8% population 116, , % crime rate 8,470 9,301-9% % change urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB persons crime offences 1, ,187 1, ,168-2% 12% 1% property crime offences 3, ,299 4, ,724-11% 2% -9% criminal code other offences 2, ,374 3, ,810-14% 21% -11% TOTAL 8,307 1,553 9,860 9,278 1,424 10,702-10% 9% -8% **DISCLAIMER: based upon local detachment statistics 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 31

34 DRUG OFFENCES % change urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB drug offences % -37% -14% TOTAL % -37% -14% TOTAL PERSON CRIME: SELECTED OFFENCES % change urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB homicide % 0% -60% sexual assualt % 6% 39% common assault % 20% -5% aggravated assault % 29% 62% assault causing bodily harm % 3% -8% robbery % -75% 48% TOTAL 1, ,421 1, ,437-5% 14% -1% TOTAL PROPERTY CRIME: SELECTED OFFENCES % change urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB break and enter % 40% 2% vehicle theft % 37% 16% TOTAL % 38% 11% DETAILS: PROPERTY CRIME OFFENCES % change BREAK AND ENTER urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB business % 6% -34% residence % 87% 14% TOTAL % 57% -2% **DISCLAIMER: based upon local detachment statistics 32 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

35 DETAILS: VEHICLES % change VEHICLE THEFT urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB auto % 86% 33% truck % 67% 38% motorcycle % -100% -100% other % -100% -100% theft from motor vehicle % -10% 10% take auto without consent % -100% -100% TOTAL , % 27% 13% TRAFFIC OFFENCES: TOTAL MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS - FATAL AND INJURY % change MVC - FATAL/INJURY urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB urban rural RMWB MVC - fatal % -22% -27% MVC - injury % 86% 71% off road vehicle fatal % 0% 0% off road vehicle injury % 25% 67% MVC - property damage - reportable MVC - property damage - non-reportable off road vehicle collision - property damage 1, ,557 2, ,546-3% 14% 0% % 36% 10% % -33% -71% TOTAL COLLISIONS 2, ,177 2, ,062 0% 20% 4% **DISCLAIMER: based upon local detachment statistics 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 33

36 06 MOVING FORWARD: WHAT S UP & COMING CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS & VICTIM SERVICES REGIMENTAL BALL Organized by Fort McMurray Victim Services, the Ball also commemorates 25 years of Victim Services in our community. The Ball will be a large-scale event open to the community and beyond. All are welcome to attend and any interested parties can contact the Victim Services Unit for more information. Tickets are projected to be available for purchase by April marks the Wood Buffalo RCMP Centennial. Throughout the coming year many events will take place to commemorate this milestone. Planning and organizing for the various events has already gotten underway and the first Centennial initiative has already taken shape. Local youth were invited to participate in a contest to create a unique Centennial Celebrations Crest. The contest ran throughout the month of November and a winner was chosen prior to the end of the year. The crest is scheduled to be unveiled at the Centennial Launch scheduled for January The rest of the year will see the progression of other Centennial events which include the vehicle decal unveiling, participation in sporting activities, dedication of the various police buildings, Officer-in-Charge awards and the Regimental Ball. Scheduled for September 21, 2013, the Regimental Ball will be the culminating event celebrating the Wood Buffalo RCMP Centennial. Other festivities are also on the horizon for the Regimental Ball weekend. The Freedom of the City parade is in the planning stages as well as a police vehicle show and shine. 34 WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

37 2015 SUMMER GAMES THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO WILL HOST THE 2015 WESTERN CANADA SUMMER GAMES FROM AUGUST 7-16, These games provide an opportunity for amateur athletes, ranging in ages from 11-20, to advance their skills in a competitive and friendly environment. More than 2,300 athletes, 10,000 spectators, 3,000 volunteers and 300 officials will participate in 10 days of high-level athletics in 18 different sports at venues located throughout the municipality. The Games will feature athletes from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Wood Buffalo RCMP personnel are leading the Security Pillar of the Games Organizing Committee in the area of Director of Security Operations, Accreditation, Venue Security, Athlete s Village Security, VIP Security, Torch Run Security, Opening and Closing Ceremony Security, Volunteers and design, development and delivery of the Security Operations Centre and Games Operations Centre. Additional personnel will lend their experience and expertise as volunteers in Traffic and Parking Control, Opening and Closing Ceremony Control and Sports Operations. The Western Canada Summer Games were developed in 1973, primarily as an opportunity for Western Canadian athletes to test their skills in Olympic standard competitions, improve sport facilities in Western Canada, foster volunteerism and provide high-quality sporting events. All three levels of government with local industry are engaged in supporting and ensuring that the 2015 Western Canada Summer Games are the best Games ever REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 35

38 CONTACT US Recruiting RCMPGRC Community Policing General Inquiries Victim Services WOOD BUFFALO DETACHMENT

39 2012 REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY 37

40 Royal Canadian Mounted Police Gendarmerie royale du Canada