The Grande Prairie Police Service’s complement of officers assigned to the local RCMP detachment has reached 13.
Following the graduation of the GPPS’ first recruit class, six were assigned to the new Community Standards Unit, while another six joined the RCMP detachment, along with three experienced officers. Officials say the grads will now begin their on-the-job training with experienced GPPS officers.
Both GPPS Chief Dwayne Lakusta and RCMP Superintendent Steve McLeod have indicated their commitment to public safety throughout the transition process.
“No matter the uniform, we are all dedicated to keeping people safe, so integrating these officers where they will have the most impact helps us ensure the transition progresses responsibly and without impacting public safety,” McLeod says. “This latest milestone demonstrates our commitment to a smooth and successful policing transition through our partnership with the RCMP,” Lakusta adds.
The GPPS adds that all new officers assigned to the RCMP detachment have received extra training, in addition to their core training, to familiarize themselves with RCMP policies, in an effort to ensure the public receives a “consistent approach” to policing during the transition.
The Grande Prairie Police Service remains on track to become Police of Primary Jurisdiction for the City by 2026.
