2015 Annual Report - Camrose Police Service

CAMROSE POLICE SERVICE
2015
ANNUAL REPORT
“Public safety through
policing excellence”
2015 Annual Report
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MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE COMMISSION
The annual report that follows outlines the activities of your Police Service for 2015. It is prepared with
the goal of transparency and sets out the achievements of the Service as well as those issues we need to
address in 2016 to maintain our safe and secure community. Your Police Commission for 2015 was
composed of Robert Ford, vice chair and public complaints director, Councillor Kevin Hycha, Councillor
PJ Stasko, and members at large Lorrie Sitler, Mark Schneider, Dave Jewel and Lowell Knutson as Chair.
I would like to thank these citizens for volunteering their scarce free time to serve on the Commission for
the community. The Camrose Police Commission is mandated by the Police Act of Alberta and is
responsible to provide governance of the Camrose Police Service and receive and monitor complaints
against the Service. We are responsible for assisting the Chief of Police in preparing a yearly budget for
approval by City Council, to ensure that there are sufficient police officers to carry out the functions of
the Police Service and to allocate the funds approved by city council. The Commission is responsible to
establish policies providing for efficient and effective policing of Camrose.
A prime area of concern for the Commission is the increasing use of powerful synthetic drugs in our
community. The so called recreational drugs are being enhanced with synthetics sometimes without the
knowledge of the end user, creating dangerous and sometimes deadly outcomes. Our Service has
successfully disrupted the flow of drugs into our community on many occasions and we have increased
our drug education through many avenues. The proposed legalization of marihuana and the deteriorating
economy, along with the perceived easy money to be made in trafficking, has created more demand and
supply. Directly associated to illegal drug use are significant increased property offences including the
theft of vehicles to transport these illegal substances. The Service is monitoring a small number of
prolific offenders who commit a disproportionate percentage of crime. All citizens are responsible for a
safe and secure community so please report suspicious activity to the police as it is happening.
The Commission is concerned with the amount of calls for service the Police are expected to attend,
which are not criminal in nature. The service is operational 24/7, 365 days a year so we are always
available for citizen service. We have found that approximately 40% of our calls are not traditional police
functions and should be addressed by other agencies. The Service budget, which includes these nonpolice calls, is still comparable in costs to other police services in Alberta at 17% of the tax levy. The
Commission and Service recognize that we must find innovative solutions to keep our costs and response
to calls efficient and effective thereby maintaining current service levels, within our budgeted guidelines.
Camrose police members are involved in the community as coaches, active members of many clubs and
churches, and volunteer their time for Police organized programs including DARE instruction and the
Rotary youth canoe trip. In 2015 members assisted in fund raising over $20,000.00 for Special Olympics
at the Free the Finest event, while the annual Charity Check Stop collected 1,850 kgs of food and
$1,500.00 for the food bank, $8,150.00 for the Camrose and District Victim Services and 1,100 toys and
$900.00 for the Kinettes Silent Santa campaign.
In 2015 the Commission began working with the Solicitor General to update our policies and procedures.
The final goal of this review will be to seek certification in 2016 that our policies and procedures meet the
standards set out by the Solicitor General. In addition, 2016 goals for the commission include attendance
at the annual AAPG conference, and participation in training opportunities provided by CAPG and the
Solicitor General.
Lowell Knutson
Chair
Camrose Police Commission
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CAMROSE POLICE SERVICE
The Camrose Police Service was established in 1956 and through the guidance and leadership of
the following Chiefs has continually advanced and is recognized for its accomplishments
throughout Canada.
Chief H.L. MARTIN - April, 1956 - May, 1963
Chief E.V. CHRISTIANSON - June, 1963 - July, 1982
Chief F.D. FRANKLIN - August, 1982 - July, 1987
A/Chief V.N. REDEKOPP - August, 1987 - December, 1987
Chief W.S. BRADSHAW - January, 1988 - January, 1999
Chief M.L. CHALMERS - January, 1999 - December, 2007
Our Mission
Public safety through Policing excellence.
Our Vision
To be a modern, progressive organization collaborating with our community to provide a safe
and caring environment that enhances quality of life in Camrose.
Values
A
Accountability - Responsible for all our decisions and actions.
S
Stewardship - Dedicated to building a heritage for future generations by encouraging
community minded growth and well-being for all internal and external stakeholders.
P
Professionalism - maintain public confidence, trust and pride.
I
Integrity - Doing the right things, for the right reasons, all of the time.
R
Respect - Treat all with courtesy, compassion, fairness and dignity.
E
Excellence - Committed to the highest ethical and legal standards in everything we do.
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Once again the Province of Alberta is experiencing a down turn in its economy, primarily due to
the low cost of crude oil. A colleague once said, “When the price of oil is high the police are
busy, when the price of oil is low the police are really busy”. That statement is a true reflection
of 2015 for the Camrose Police Service.
Despite our concentrated efforts, the overall reported criminal offences increased by 17 %, from
1,771 cases to 2,070 cases. An analysis indicates a clear connection between the substantial
increase in property related crimes (25%) and substance abuse; primarily the use and distribution
of synthetic drugs. Early in 2015 we engaged our community partners with educational
presentations, awareness packages, and preventative initiatives all targeted at substance abuse.
As we move forward we will continue with these initiatives and enhance our enforcement,
targeting those distributing narcotics in our community. In 2016 we will also continue with
initiatives involving offender management and the thefts of vehicles.
Included in this report are the significant achievements by our Camrose and District Victim
Services Unit, the many projects of the Crime Prevention Officer and the School Resource
Officer. The impacts that these individuals and programs have on our community cannot be
measured but l see the positive results every day. Without their caring dedication, most of whom
are volunteers, none of these accomplishments would be possible.
Sadly in 2015 two Alberta police officers lost their lives serving their communities. These
tragedies remind us of the risks our front line members face every day and the difficult decisions
they are forced to make many times a day. I am committed to ensure our personnel have not
only the training and tools required to perform their duties but that they are mentally prepared
and cared for as well.
I trust that you will find the contents of this report informative and I thank you for taking the
time to read it. It is an honor for me to continue to serve Camrose as the leader of this great
organization.
D.L. Kambeitz, M.O.M.
Chief of Police
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Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement
Agencies
(CALEA)
“CALEA serves to develop standards for public safety agencies and administer complementary accreditation
processes. The Process provides a modern management model for public safety agencies on an international basis,
and is a blueprint for developing industry recognized best practices.”
The Camrose Police Service is compliant with this Accreditation process in maintaining these advanced law
enforcement standards by continuing to:
 strengthen crime prevention programs
 formalize essential management procedures
 establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices
 improve service-delivery
 solidify interagency cooperation and coordination and enhance citizen and staff confidence
“Four Year Accreditation Cycle”….
2016 will mark the beginning of a
new Four Year Accreditation
Cycle. This new process was
developed to assist agencies in
maintaining compliance with
Accreditation by having key files
reviewed yearly during the annual
web-based assessment.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
The primary goal of the Crime Prevention Unit at the Camrose Police Service is to develop and
maintain healthy community partnerships to enhance public safety in our community. By
educating the citizens of Camrose they can protect themselves from becoming victimized by
various crimes. The Crime Prevention Unit consists of one full time police officer who is
responsible for various crime prevention initiatives, proactive education, and community
involvement. The majority of this work is done through partnerships with other individuals,
businesses, groups, and organizations within Camrose. The main goal of the program is to ensure
Camrose is as safe a community as possible. In 2015 Cst. Matthew Wilton worked his fourth
year as the Crime Prevention Officer, Cst. John Fernhout took over the position in September.
In 2015 public education continued to be the focal point in preventing crime in the community.
Various Camrose Police Service members provided a wide range of presentations to several
organizations, groups, businesses, and school classes throughout Camrose. Examples of these
presentations include: fraud awareness, counterfeit currency, credit and debit card fraud, bike
safety, residential security, domestic violence, stalking and harassment, bomb threat procedures,
impaired driving, drug awareness, internet and social media safety, and school zone safety. Cst.
Rolfe provided various organizations and schools demonstrations with his Police Service Dog
Mishka, and continued to utilize his connections with the Camrose Kodiaks and other minor
hockey teams to provide our local hockey teams with presentations on appropriate behavior on
and off of the ice. Cst. Rolfe also provided assistance to the Family Violence Action Society’s
inaugural Black and Blue Campaign. This was a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at promoting
responsible behaviors for hockey players, the parents of hockey players, coaches, and the fans.
Over twenty school tours were conducted in 2015, most of these were with children in
kindergarten or early elementary. The tours include information regarding the daily operations of
the police service including a chance to see a police car and cell block area. The children are
introduced to the various units within the Camrose Police Service and provided information
about the general function of the police. These tours include information on personal safety and
the proper use of 9-1-1. The tours are always popular and many schools incorporate the tour into
their standard curriculum. Other groups such as the Camrose and area Scouts, the Women’s
Shelter, Camrose Association for Community Living, and numerous summer children’s
programs also took advantage of building tours throughout the year.
Businesses and citizens were consistently updated about current crime trends and the proactive
ways they can deter crime in 2015. Some examples include information about: jewelry store theft
prevention, cell phone retail thefts, liquor store break and enter prevention, robbery and safety
tips for businesses, building security and camera system assessments.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Business Watch continued to be a great resource to quickly warn the businesses that participate
in that program. The Camrose Chamber of Commerce fan-out system was used for a few
important business related crime warnings. Both local newspapers, the Camrose Booster and the
Camrose Canadian were utilized to educate the public. Various articles were written concerning
crime prevention and crime educational topics. These articles included topics such as: fraud
awareness, counterfeit currency, credit card manual entry fraud, fraudulent telephone solicitors,
coin laundry thefts, revenue Canada scams, and criminal record checks on current and new
employees for businesses.
Providing education to our citizens can help solve crime. The notification of current crime
trends place our citizens in a better position to recognize crime while it is occurring and report it
to the police in a timely fashion.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design or (CPTED) continued to be used to reduce
criminal activity in our community. The CPTED philosophy revolves around the specific design
of public and private places in ways that prevent criminal activity. Minor alterations to buildings
and residences can reduce potential crimes from occurring. A numerous businesses were spoken
to about CPTED techniques. Presentations about the CPTED philosophy were provided to
residential home owners and renters of apartment complexes.
The Crime Prevention Officer continued to work closely with
Camrose and District Victim Services by acting as the liaison between
the Victim Service Unit (VSU) and the Camrose Police Service. VSU
provides immediate assistance to victims along with follow up
services on an on-call basis 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. VSU
is a police based community service that is operated out of the
Camrose Police Service building. Their motto is Support, Inform and
Refer and their goal is to ensure that all victims of crime and tragedy
have access to the available resources and services that are within our community and province.
In 2015 Lucy, the Victim Assistance Dog, completed her second year with VSU. Michelle
Hauser the Camrose VSU Coordinator is the primary handler for Lucy, and Cst. Wilton, is
designated as a secondary handler due to his VSU liaison role. Cst. Wilton often involves Lucy
in his various community presentations to help create more awareness about this new trend in
victim support. Lucy was obtained in 2013 through the Edmonton based assistance dog training
facility Dogs With Wings. Her role is to provide comfort, security, and support to victims who
have recently experienced a tragic or criminal event. Lucy continues to be an integral part of
VSU and becomes has been utilized more and more every year.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
The Crime Prevention Officer provides assistance to VSU through: interviewing new applicants
for the VSU Board and Advocate positions, attending all the board and advocate meetings,
assisting in the fundraising events for the unit which helps them secure their year-to year
funding, assisting in presentations about the unit, and giving feedback to the unit. VSU is a key
part of the high level of service that the Camrose Police Service provides to the citizens of our
community. Currently there are 18 fully trained advocates including two that are crossed trained
to provide Red Cross Services. There is also a board of ten volunteer board members, in addition
to Cst. Fernhout and an RCMP Police Liaison, who govern the unit and work to ensure the unit’s
funding.
The Crime Prevention Officer is the liaison between
the Camrose Police Service and the Crime Stoppers
program. Crime Stoppers functions outside of police
direction and provides an outlet for people to
anonymously provide information about criminal
occurrences or activity. Crime Stoppers records the
information and sends it to the police. The Camrose
Police Service receives numerous Crime Stopper tips
throughout the year; these tips can help solve crime by providing police with investigative leads
that might not be available through other channels.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
The Crime Prevention Officer is responsible for the processing of the Camrose Crime Stoppers
tips, sharing them with the local media, and posting these releases on the Camrose Police Service
web site. In 2015 there were a number of releases that requested information on specific crimes
that had occurred within our community. Please visit the Camrose Police Service website Crime
Stoppers webpage to view current and past releases.
In 2015 the Business Watch Program continued to provide its
membership with updates about crime trends and recent business
related scams. Business Watch allows the Crime Prevention Officer to
quickly disseminate information to business about the recent crimes
that have occurred in Camrose and the surrounding area. The purpose
is to provide the participating businesses with knowledge of current
criminal activity along with educational information about specific
scams which will help our local participating businesses from
becoming victimized. During 2015 a number of emails were sent to the
participating businesses. These releases included information on: specific shoplifting offences,
the importance of surveillance systems, business related scams such as the quick change scam,
robbery offences, and credit card frauds. Any business that would like their email address to be
added to this program can contact Cst. Fernhout.
The Wise Owl program continued in 2015 to educate the general public
about mass market frauds and scams. The Wise Owls are specifically
dedicated to the interests of older age citizens and the fraud crimes that
specifically target them but, they also help generate awareness for all
citizens of Camrose. These fraudulent scams often originate outside of
the Camrose jurisdiction with many of them stretching outside the
borders of Canada; further to this, scams can also appear very similar in
nature since they all have the same goal: to target an individual’s
identity or their hard earned money. This is why proactive education is
often very effective in reducing the number of victims. The Crime
Prevention Officer and Wise Owls provided fraud awareness presentations to various business,
community groups, and organizations in 2015. Local print media, including the Camrose
Canadian and the Camrose Booster were used to provide various articles in the newspaper that
highlighted different fraud awareness tips, trends, and advice. The Camrose Wise Owl Tip
brochure was distributed to our residents throughout the year. Outlets such as the Camrose
Farmers Market, and businesses such as Camrose Wal-Mart were used to handout this important
material. In the spring The Wise Owls and Crime Prevention Officer attended the Camrose AMA
Shredding Event to help promote the proactive steps individuals can do to help prevent identity
theft. Debit/credit card protective sleeves were also made available for free to the public. These
sleeves help protect Tap-to-Pay enabled cards from electronic data theft.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
The Camrose Police Service co-hosted the ninth annual Charity Checkstop in December with the
Camrose RCMP and Camrose and District Victim Services. The Charity Checkstop is an
important fundraiser that relies on volunteer commitment from the Camrose Police Service,
RCMP members, as well as VSU advocates and board members. This year the event collected
over 4,000 lbs of food and $1,500.00 in monetary donations for the Camrose Food Bank; over
1,100 toys and $900 in monetary and gift card donations for the Camrose Kinettes Silent Santa
program; and $8,143.36 in monetary donations for Camrose and District Victim Services. The
Charity Checkstop also provided a great opportunity to promote community relations with the
public and it promoted interagency cooperation with the Camrose RCMP and the involved
charities. The University of Alberta Augustana Campus women’s basketball team and Camrose
Kodiak hockey team also participated in the event by volunteering their time to support the three
designated charities.
Family violence prevention month was held again in November and the volunteers of the Family
Violence Action Society (FVAS) continued their annual November campaign to raise public
awareness about the frequency of family violence. The Crime Prevention Officer is designated as
a member of FVAS and he is also a board member for the Family Violence Response Council. In
these two roles he provides support towards family violence awareness, in particular the
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
November initiatives. In 2015 the Red Silhouette Campaign continued as the primary November
awareness activity. Red painted silhouettes of women, children, and pets were placed in popular
locations throughout Camrose. These silhouettes contain family violence statistics and
information that is posted on their chests. The Camrose Police Service supports this awareness
campaign because they recognize the negative effects of family violence on individuals and
families. Roses were also dropped off at a number of businesses with Family Violence
brochures providing facts and information on Family Violence. The roses were left without
water and slowly die representing the effect silence can have on Family Violence.
In 2015 Cst. Wilton assisted in several fundraisers and other family violence awareness events
including a BBQ fundraiser for FVAS that was hosted by Scotia Bank. Cst. Jackson volunteered
as a participant in the Camrose Women’s Shelter annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes fundraiser. In
2015 several presentations about various family violence related topics such as domestic
violence and stalking and harassment; these presentations were conducted in partnership with
Camrose and District Victim Services.
The Crime Prevention Officer continues to have a close
relationship with Camrose Special Olympics. Police across North
America have a long history of being involved with Special
Olympics and in 2015 Cst. Wilton and other Camrose Police
Service officers continued to volunteer their time to help support
our local Special Olympic program. Cst. Wilton continued to
participated in several Special Olympic events and helped organize a basketball game
between the local Special Olympic athletes and members of the Camrose Police Service.
In 2015 the third annual “Free our Finest” Special Olympic fundraiser took place. This two
day fundraiser held in September involved officers from the Camrose Police Service, the
Camrose RCMP detachment, the Camrose Fire Department, Camrose County Protective
Services, and Camrose Emergency Medical Services. This fundraiser involved one
volunteer officer from each agency being confined to a parking lot jail cell for the entire 30
hours of the event. At the same time other volunteer officers were paired with Special
Olympic athletes to collect donations from spectators and Wal-Mart customers. Numerous
demonstrations by each agency and other partnering organizations were conducted in the
parking lot over the two days. This helped each agency showcase its unique resources and
tools, helped draw crowds to the fundraiser, and provided the public with insight about
emergency services within Camrose and the area. Over $20,000.00 was raised for Special
Olympics with half of the funds raised being designated to support local programing efforts
and the other half designated to support provincial Special Olympic initiatives.
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CRIME PREVENTION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS
In 2015 other community events such as: Tim Horton’s Camp Day, McDonalds McHappy
Days, the Camrose Canada Day festivities, Augustana University Campus Neighbourhood
BBQ, the Big Valley Jamboree Parade, the AMA School Safety Event, the Camrose
Remembrance Day Ceremonies, and the Camrose
Festival of Trees Teddy Bear Disco were all attended
by the Crime Prevention Officer and other Camrose
Police Officers. These events help foster positive
public relationships with members of our community,
and demonstrates to our citizens that the Camrose
Police Service supports local businesses and
community groups.
The Crime Prevention Unit is a critical component in
maintaining strong working relationships between the
Police and various community groups and businesses in
Camrose. Crime prevention initiatives that utilize open
communication with the public are the key in the reduction
and prevention of crime. The Camrose Police Service
recognizes that crime prevention is a community effort that
involves everyone working together towards maintaining a
safer community. There are a number of volunteers who
work for crime prevention programs such as the Wise Owls
and Camrose and District Victim Services that are an essential component of the Crime
Prevention Units success. The Camrose Police Service would like to thank all of the volunteers
in these programs for their service and dedication. These volunteers help enhance the safety of
our community through the countless hours that they volunteer.
Cst. John Fernhout
Crime Prevention Officer
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/D.A.R.E. PROGRAMS
The School Resource Officer is a cooperative program that utilizes a uniformed police officer
within the school system. The first School Resource Officer (SRO) in Camrose originated in
1996 and has played a valuable role in being part of the school community. Funding for the
position is obtained outside of the Camrose Police Service budget to ensure that the SRO is
dedicated to the schools and not distracted by other needs of the police service. Funding for the
SRO is received from the City of Camrose (30%), Battle River School Division (27%), Elk
Island Catholic School Division (3%) and community partners (40%).
The School Resource Officer is a specialized position within the Camrose Police Service. Since
August of 2013 this role has been filled by Cst. Kelly Bauer. The SRO frequently gets referred to
as the “DARE officer”. Although facilitating the DARE program to students is one aspect of the
position, there are other aspects to the SRO role. A second function of the SRO is to be a
“resource” to the schools in assisting the school administration in ensuring a safe and caring
place of learning for students and staff by balancing enforcement with prevention. A third
function of the position is to interact with students increasing the visibility and accessibility of
Police while building relationships with students and being a positive role model.
The DARE Program
D.A.R.E. is an acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education. The D.A.R.E program has
demonstrated leadership in the prevention of drug abuse and promotes a “no use” drug message.
The D.A.R.E. curriculum continues this commitment in preventing drug use by developing basic
or core skills needed for making safe and responsible choices. The D.A.R.E. program strongly
believes that if you can teach youth to make safe and responsible decisions, this will guide them
to healthy choices not only about drugs but in other areas of their lives. Drug related facts and
information are woven into the program to ensure students are aware of the dangers of drug use.
As they grow to be responsible citizens, they will lead healthier and more productive drug-free
lives.
The D.A.R.E officer remains the key to delivering the D.A.R.E curriculum. Officers are vital in
making the lessons come to life while playing an incredibly positive role for students. The
following officers volunteer their time to instruct the D.A.R.E program and are a positive
influence in the lives of students.
Cst. Kelly Bauer, Program Coordinator, Instructor
Cst. Russell These, Instructor
Cst. John Fernhout, Instructor
Cst. Mark Cossette, Instructor
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/D.A.R.E. PROGRAMS
All elementary and junior high schools in Camrose are provided the D.A.R.E. program, with
approximately 600 students participating; 200 grade 3 students, 200 grade 6 students, and 200
grade 8 students.
Grade 3 students receive six classes of DARE instruction, including topics such as personal
safety, drug awareness, dealing with emotions and bullying. In the final class students each
receive a personalized certificate representing their completion of the program.
Grade 6 students receive ten lessons. The first lesson starts with responsibility and introduces
decision making. Subsequent lessons apply these skills in increasing complex ways involving
drug use and other choices they face in their lives. Making decisions while thinking about the
risks and consequences, while dealing with stress and peer pressure, the importance of effective
communication all add to the complexity of sound decision making. It is D.A.R.E’s vision that
youth who think their way through situations make better choices that are not impulsive, will be
drug free and will be more successful in all areas of their lives.
At the conclusion of the grade 6 program, students write what is known as the D.A.R.E essay.
The essay is a personal initiative in making safe and responsible choices. This provides feedback
as to their knowledge and understanding of the course content and how they will personally
apply this new knowledge in their lives. Following completion of the program students are
rewarded for their success in the program with a D.A.R.E. graduation held at Duggan theatres.
After a movie and lunch sponsored by local businesses students receive certificates from
dignitaries at an award ceremony.
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/D.A.R.E. PROGRAMS
Grade 8 students also receive 10 lessons with a “Keepin’ it Real” theme based on the acronym
R.E.A.L.(refuse, explain, avoid, leave). These four main refusal strategies are explored enabling
students to get out of tough situations involving drugs, violence and peer pressure. This year the
grade 8 classes also received presentations from two local community members who shared their
personal stories on how drugs have negatively impacted their lives. The first presentation was by
a 32 year old male who described his life as a constant drug influenced struggle which began
with smoking cigarettes, then marijuana, then cocaine and meth. He described how strong his
addictions were and the physical effects that they had on his body were still evident to students.
The second presentation was by a mother whose son died due to a cocaine and fentanyl
overdose. She described how her son went from trying to help his friends with drug addictions to
becoming an addict himself within the same year. These two presentations were very beneficial
to students allowing them to “put a face” to drug addiction. The presentations reinforced the
message delivered through-out the DARE program.
The D.A.R.E. program was designed to and continues to represent a large percentage of the
health curriculum required by Alberta Learning at the grade levels where D.A.R.E is taught.
The materials and training aspects of the DARE program itself are funded by numerous local
businesses and private individuals. Major sponsors of the program are Zetsen Homes, A1
Rentals, Battle River Equipment and Meridian Manufacturing Inc.
A Resource to Schools
As the name School Resource Officer implies, the SRO is a” resource” to the schools in
whatever capacity is required. Working cooperatively with school administrators, staff and
students, the SRO answers questions, listens to concerns, addresses problems and assists in
finding solutions.
The less enjoyable part of the SRO role is dealing with negative occurrences. When specific
problems arise within or outside the school, school administration contacts the SRO to assist.
Issues such as bullying, truancy, social media issues, vandalism & mischief, break & enter into
school property, theft, fights and conflict, threats, assaults, child custody issues, child safety
concerns at home, sex related and drug related incidents are situations that the SRO has been
involved in. When a specific student’s behavior is recognized as a potential threat to a school, the
SRO sits on a panel of stakeholders and contributes information in a student risk assessment.
Proactively the SRO conducted bike safety presentations to all kindergarten to grade 8 students.
This was not a small task and required cooperation from the schools to hold student assemblies
where bike safety principles were presented. The presentations were well received by students
and positive comments were made by staff and parents.
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/D.A.R.E. PROGRAMS
The SRO also assists all schools in completing lock-down drills. The lockdown drill is evaluated
by the SRO, other available police officers as well as members from the fire department. Over
the years of practicing lockdown drills schools have become very proficient. After the evaluation
of the drill the SRO provides school administration with a summary of the results and challenges
them with ways of fine tuning the lockdown drills to make them even more successful.
Building Relationships
The most positive and proactive component of the SRO role is building relationships with
students. The SRO position can be a very rewarding experience as friendships are developed
over time with students and staff. Students come from all different backgrounds and experiences
outside of the school environment. Their perception of a uniformed officer varies depending on
those life experiences. One of the goals of the SRO is to breakdown any barriers that may exist
while displaying a friendly, positive role model to students.
Building relationships is simply done by being visible within the school community and by being
interactive with students. Sometimes this is as simple as being in the school hallways at the start
of their school day, during breaks or at lunch time. It can also be serving food at breakfast clubs,
lunch or barbequing hamburgers on special occasions. It has also involved the SRO sitting in on
classes or accepting an invitation by students to a game of floor hockey, ping pong or game of
tag.
Activities that are outside of the school are very valuable in building relationships with students.
When the schedule allows, the SRO attends school field trips within or outside of Camrose.
Overnight outdoor education trips are extremely valuable in building
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/D.A.R.E. PROGRAMS
relationships. Shared experiences where students observe the SRO wearing plain clothes and
participating beside them in challenging outdoor activities is an opportunity for them to literally
see the person rather than the Police uniform. Enjoying experiences outside of normal day to day
activities and by having the SRO being part of those activities can build positive memories for
students.
The annual Augustana canoe trip sponsored by the Camrose Rotary Club is an ideal example of
how effective an outdoor trip can be in building relationships. The trip involves a seven day
canoe trip down the North Saskatchewan River from Nordegg to Rocky Mountain House.
Students from PACE school once again had the opportunity to experience the adventure. Many
of these students have personally, or have had family members, make choices that have had legal
consequences. These students do not always view their experiences with Police as being positive.
PACE students are able to develop a new perspective of Police over the seven day adventure as
they interact with the SRO as they paddle together, work together, eat together and enjoy stories
each night around the campfire. When the SRO is part of those memories, students have a more
positive view of the SRO which also changes their view of Police.
Summary
By teaching the DARE program, by being a resource to schools and by building relationships
with students the ultimate goal of the SRO program is to make a positive impact now and in the
future of our next generation.
Submitted By:
Cst. Kelly BAUER
School Resource Officer
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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
Public Complaint Director
Camrose Police Commission
Legal Services
Chaplain
Chief
Deputy Chief
Administration
Provincial Secondment
EIIU
Staff Sergeant
Operations
School Resource
Officer
Cst.
Community Peace
Crime Prevention/
Community Relations
Cst.
Officer
Traffic Section
Cst.
Patrol
Sergeant
CBPT 1
Patrol
Sergeant
CBPT 2
Photo Radar
Section C.P.O
Executive Assistant
PROS Manager
Communications
Manager
Civilian
Standards
and Property
Management
Civilian
Court Liaison
Civilian
Communications
E-9-l-l Centre
Civilian
Major
Crimes Unit
Sgt.
Patrol
Sergeant
CBPT 3
Patrol
Sergeant
CBPT 4
Criminal
Investigation
Team
Crime
Analyst
Civilian
Guards
Front Counter
Civilian
2015 Annual Report
-18-
Crime
Reduction
Team
2015 FAST FACTS ABOUT THE
CAMROSE POLICE SERVICE
 Provide 24/7 Policing Services to the City of Camrose
 Camrose Population (2014 Municipal Census) – 18,038
 Authorized 2013 Complement – 31*
*
*
*
*
Chief of Police
1
Deputy Chief
1
Staff Sergeant
1
Sergeants
5
Constables
23
includes these externally funded positions
1 – School Resource Officer – funded by the community and school divisions
1 – Provincial Secondment – funded by A.L.E.R.T.
2 – Police Officers – funded by the Alberta Solicitor General Public Safety
 Police to Population Ratio – 1/623 or 160/100,000
 Provided Police services in over 14,000 reported incidents
 Completed 2,070 Criminal Investigations
 Seized 367 grams of Cocaine, 2,370 grams of Marihuana and 207 grams of
Methamphetamine, 2,780 millilitres of GHB and $10,000 in cash
 Seized illegal narcotics totaling $107,000.00
 Completed 667 Traffic Collision Investigations
 Utilized Photo Radar Enforcement to enhance traffic safety throughout the year
 Operates a prisoner holding facility 24/7
 Managed 786 prisoners through the lock-up
 Authorized civilian staff - 18
 Provide 24/7 E-911 Call Answer Services to the City of Camrose and Camrose County
 Provide 24/7 Dispatch Services to the Camrose Police Service, Camrose Fire Service, and
9 Camrose County Fire Departments
 Received more than 7000 E-911 calls.
 Have more than 40 volunteers contributing time and energy to our ongoing programs,
boards and community projects
2015 Annual Report
-19-
SERVICE RECOGNITION & AWARDS
Constable Bellamy, Constable Cleveland, Constable Hanlon, Constable Tomaszewski,
Community Peace Officer Hagen and Community Peace Officer Mandrusiak received the City of
Camrose 5 year recognition pin.
Constable Bauer received the City of Camrose 10 year recognition pin, Community Peace
Officer Gillis received the City of Camrose 15 year recognition pin and Standards Manager
Grant received the City of Camrose 35 year recognition pin.
The following police personnel were presented with an Alberta Emergency Services medal
recognizing their contribution to public safety, Ms. Dalen, Ms. Jessiman, Mrs. Van Petten, Cst.
Rolfe, Cst. Schiebelbein, and Sgt. Brisson, Sgt. Corbett, Sgt. Ferguson, Sgt. Sveinbjornson,
Deputy Chief Foreman and Chief Kambeitz.
Chief Kambeitz was presented with the Members Order of Merit of the Police Forces by His
Excellency The Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.
Cst. Wilton received the Kiwanis “Top Cop” award recognizing his community involvement.
Sergeant Mohan received a “Letter of Commendation” for his assistance and dedication to a
homicide file, resulting in the apprehension and conviction of the person responsible.
The Camrose & District Victim Services Unit received the Justice and Solicitor Generals
“Alberta Community Service award for Innovation”. The Family & Community Safety
Inspiration award for Leadership in Family Violence. The National Philanthropy Day – 2015
outreach award.
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Formal complaints investigated - 1
Investigations resulting in sanctions - 1
Formal compliments – 17
2015 Annual Report
-20-
BUDGET
2015 OPERATIONAL EXPENDITURE
Contracted &
General
Services 5%
Materials,
Goods &
Supplies 8%
Personnel
Compensation
87%
Personnel Compensation
Contracted & General Services
Materials, Goods & Supplies
The 2015 Operating Budget $6,155,000.00 approved by Council for the Police Service is
highlighted by percentages in the above graph.
2015 Annual Report
-21-
BUDGET
2015 OPERATIONAL FINANCING
Provincial
Grants 10%
Service Fees &
User Charges
6%
Fine Revenue
15%
Tax Supported
69%
Fine Revenue
Provincial Grants
Service Fees & User Charges
Tax Supported
The 2015 Operating Budget $6,155,000.00 was financed as indicated by percentages in the
above graph, with $4,250,000.00 being tax supported.
2015 Annual Report
-22-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference 2014
to 2015
MURDER
ATTEMPTED MURDER
CONCEAL DEAD BODY/CHILD AT BIRTH
TOTAL HOMICIDE
1
0
0
1
2
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0%
0%
0%
0%
ROBBERY WITH FIREARM
ROBBERY WITH OFFENSIVE WEAPON
OTHER ROBBERY
TOTAL ROBBERY
0
3
0
3
1
2
1
4
0
1
1
2
1
1
2
4
4
2
2
8
300%
100%
0%
100%
SEXUAL ASSAULT WITH WEAPON
SEXUAL ASSAULT
ASSAULT LEVEL 1
ASSAULT LEVEL 2
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT LEVEL 3
ASSAULT ON POLICE
OTHER ASSAULTS
DISCHARGE FIREARM
TOTAL ASSAULTS
0
9
173
31
1
10
2
0
226
0
12
154
27
3
4
4
0
204
0
15
137
33
2
9
2
0
198
0
12
114
26
2
6
1
0
161
0
20
148
36
3
9
2
0
218
0%
67%
30%
38%
50%
50%
100%
0%
35%
7
3
3
3
18
500%
HOMICIDE
ROBBERY
ASSAULTS
OTHER SEX OFFENCES
2015 Annual Report
-23-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS (Continued)
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference 2014
to 2015
0
3
0
0
0
0%
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0%
0%
0%
ARSON - DISREGARD FOR LIFE
0
0
1
0
0
0%
KIDNAPPING
0
0
0
1
0
-100%
EXTORTION
0
0
1
0
2
N/C
CRIMINAL HARASSMENT
58
36
29
29
12
-59%
UTTERING THREATS
103
75
93
65
62
-5%
TOTAL CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
398
325
327
263
320
21%
ABDUCTIONS
ABDUCT PERSON UNDER 14
ABDUCT CONTRAVENING CUSTODY
ORDER
ADBUCT - NO CUSTODY ORDER
TOTAL ABDUCTIONS
* Denotes years in which category information was not captured
*N/C = Not Calculable
2015 Annual Report
-24-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY
BREAK AND ENTER
BUSINESS
RESIDENTIAL
OTHER
TOTAL BREAK AND ENTER
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference 2014
to 2015
22
36
29
87
16
30
42
88
18
28
38
84
11
31
27
69
46
34
21
101
318%
10%
-22%
46%
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLES
AUTO
TRUCK
MOTORCYCLE
OTHER
TOTAL THEFT OF MOTOR
VEHICLES
8
13
0
14
5
8
2
12
9
12
1
12
8
18
2
9
15
46
2
18
88%
156%
0%
100%
35
27
34
37
81
119%
THEFT OVER $5000
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLES
SHOPLIFTING OVER $5000
OTHER THEFT OVER $5000
TOTAL THEFTS OVER $5000
2
0
6
8
2
0
7
9
0
1
7
8
1
1
7
9
2
2
7
11
100%
100%
0%
22%
29
168
43
173
0
413
36
157
41
210
0
444
31
112
46
163
2
354
23
95
57
127
2
304
22
140
77
168
1
408
-4%
47%
35%
32%
-50%
34%
THEFTS UNDER $5000
BICYCLE THEFTS
THEFTS FROM MOTOR VEHICLES
SHOPLIFTING UNDER $5000
OTHER THEFTS UNDER $5000
THEFT OF UTILITY
TOTAL THEFTS UNDER $5000
2015 Annual Report
-25-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY (Continued)
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference 2014
to 2015
344
261
281
248
198
-20%
ARSON - DAMAGE PROPERTY
6
6
2
4
5
25%
POSSESSION OF STOLEN PROPERTY
47
69
106
55
101
84%
3
93
0
0
2
3
101
3
86
0
2
0
2
93
14
70
0
1
0
1
86
10
86
0
0
0
1
97
7
118
0
0
0
1
126
-30%
37%
0%
0%
0%
0%
30%
1041
997
955
823
1031
25%
PROPERTY DAMAGE OVER/UNDER $5000
FRAUDS
CREDIT CARD
FRAUD
PERSONATION
FORGERY
UTTERING
COUNTERFEITING - POSSESSION/UTTERING
TOTAL FRAUDS
TOTAL CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY
2015 Annual Report
-26-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference
2014 to 2015
23
2
122
36
2
89
0
0
50
0
1
21
3
92
31
2
106
0
0
53
2
0
28
1
101
49
5
163
0
0
81
0
2
49
0
89
29
3
207
0
0
78
1
0
54
2
73
30
2
278
0
0
66
1
4
10%
N/C
-18%
3%
-33%
34%
0%
0%
-15%
0%
N/C
325
310
430
456
510
12%
OTHER NON OFFENCES
PEACE BOND
BREACH OF PEACE
5
149
2
153
4
158
6
222
6
203
0%
-9%
GRAND TOTAL OF CRIMINAL OFFENCES
1918
1787
1874
1771
2070
17%
OTHER CRIMINAL CODE
WEAPONS OFFENCES
TRESPASS - NIGHT
DISTURB THE PEACE
OBSTRUCTION/RESIST POLICE
INDECENT ACT
BAIL VIOLATION
ESCAPE CUSTODY
PRISONERS UNLAWFULLY AT LARGE
BREACH OF PROBATION
CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
VOYEURISM
TOTAL OTHER CRIMINAL CODE
OFFENCES
Denotes category not existing during the year due to addition or deletion
* N/C = Not Calculable
2015 Annual Report
-27-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
DRUG OFFENCES
COCAINE POSSESSION
COCAINE TRAFFICKING
METHADONE POSSESSION
PRODUCTION OF MARIHUANA
MARIHUANA POSSESSION OVER 30 G
MARIHUANA POSSESSION UNDER 30 G
POSSESSION OF CANNABIS RESIN- SCH VIII
TRAFFICKING HASHISH LESS THAN 3 KILOS.
POSSESSION OTHER SCHEDULE I DRUGS
(Morphine, Meth, etc.)
MDA TRAFFICKING
MARIHUANA TRAFFICKING OVER 3 KG
MARIHUANA TRAFFICKING UNDER 3 KG
CANNABIS RESIN - TRAFFICKING VII
POSSESSION OF PSILOCYBIN
PSILOCYBIN TRAFFICKING
METHAMPHETAMINE TRAFFICKING
POSSESSION OF OTHER SCHEDULE III DRUGS
(Ecstasy, Methamphetamine & Psilocybin, etc.)
TRAFFICKING OF OTHER SCHEDULE III DRUGS
(Ecstasy, Methamphetamine & Psilocybin, etc.)
TRAFFICKING OF OTHER SCHEDULE I DRUGS
(Morphine, etc.)
TRAFFICKING OTHER SCHEDULE IV
(Valium, etc.)
*PROCEEDS OF CRIME (Drug Offences)
TOTAL DRUG OFFENCES
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference
2014 to 2015
13
15
0
3
7
120
0
0
8
26
0
0
4
110
2
0
17
26
0
0
2
148
1
0
28
30
0
0
4
146
2
0
28
11
0
0
3
178
9
0
0%
-63%
0%
0%
-25%
22%
350%
0%
4
0
0
5
0
3
0
1
4
0
0
7
0
1
0
0
16
1
0
11
0
0
0
4
44
0
0
8
0
1
1
16
60
0
0
13
0
1
0
7
36%
0%
0%
63%
0%
0%
-100%
-56%
2
3
1
7
8
14%
2
4
2
4
0
-100%
4
0
1
3
2
-33%
1
9
0
5
0
8
1
28
0
8
-100%
-71%
189
174
238
323
328
2%
*offence no longer captured under Possession of Stolen Property Category
2015 Annual Report
-28-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
PROVINCIAL ACTS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference
2014 to 2015
CHILD WELFARE
13
21
40
36
38
6%
CORONERS ACT
14
12
16
22
20
-9%
GAMING & LIQUOR ACT
553
453
470
531
501
-6%
MENTAL HEALTH ACT
146
164
162
178
165
-7%
OTHER PROVINCIAL STATS
31
15
13
10
14
40%
PROVINCIAL ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATION
8
5
9
11
10
-9%
SUMMARY CONVICTION ACT
87
81
96
89
90
1%
TRESPASS ACT
15
34
27
31
27
-13%
MUNICIPAL BYLAWS
695
725
907
857
718
-16%
NOTE:
These offences are all Provincial legislation acts and do not fall under federal criminal legislation.
They have been included in this report to illustrate some of the main areas the Police Service deals with in
conjunction with criminal and traffic related offences.
2015 Annual Report
-29-
OCCURRENCE STATISTICS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
% Difference
2014 to 2015
Impaired Driving/Over 80 mg%
Fail/Refuse to Provide Breath Samples
Driving While Disqualified/Prohibited
Dangerous Operation of a M/V
Roadside Suspension
TOTAL
97
16
20
21
140
294
86
11
13
23
103
236
81
19
21
28
62
211
57
6
22
15
30
130
52
7
12
12
53
136
-9%
14%
-54%
-20%
53%
4%
PROVINCIAL TRAFFIC OFFENCES
Fail to Stop/Remain at Accident
Drive With Undue Care & Attention
Driving While Disqualified
Moving Traffic Violations
Non-Moving Traffic Violations
Insurance Charges
Parking Violations
Written Warnings
TOTAL
11
11
17
5395
878
29
135
7
6483
10
12
29
10,346
981
24
89
91
11,552
21
7
33
8384
872
42
52
148
9559
13
14
21
9087
744
31
88
45
10,043
8
10
27
8961
671
35
56
141
-38%
-29%
22%
-2%
-10%
11%
36%
213%
MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS
Fatal
Non-Fatal Injury
Property Damage - Reportable
Property Damage - Non-Reportable
2
43
556
128
0
36
567
123
0
48
557
106
0
41
599
107
1
24
560
106
100%
-41%
-7%
-1%
684
43
676
34
670
46
747
42
666
30
-11%
-29%
CRIMINAL CODE TRAFFIC OFFENCES
TOTAL MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS
TOTAL PERSONS INJURED
** The 2013 Traffic Analysis identified that the City of Camrose Collision Database has been inaccurately capturing statistical information. Considerable time and effort was
dedicated to tabulate statistics manually to ensure accuracy. In 2014, with the assistance of the City of Camrose I.T. Department, a revamped data base was created to ensure
accurate tabulation of statistics in 2014 and future years.
2015 Annual Report
-30-