County Peace Officers respond to issues raised by slain comrade

Times Contributor

 

Alberta Solicitor General Jonathan Denis is currently reviewing the policy for Provincial and Municipal Peace officers to carry weapons while on duty, stemming from the recent on duty death of the MD of Foothills peace officer Rod Lazenby.

Counties province wide are asking safety questions about their own services jarred by this tragic death.

“County of Wheatland councillors were concerned about what safety measures were in place for our county officers and what they would do, if they needed to call for help,” said Gerald Skibinsky, Manager of Protective Services. “Measures we have in place currently exceed what some areas have in place.”

Peace Officer Kevin Taylor outlined that County of Wheatland officers take yearly training courses to renew certification for utilization of protection equipment. Depending on the level of the officer, protection tools of dog repellant, pepper spray, baton and shotgun were available as tools in execution of their duties.

Protective mechanisms of in-car video camera and voice recording were in place. Their radios are equipped with GPS capabilities that can locate the position of the officer’s car. There are portable radios linked to dispatch, with timers that can be set, so that if the officer is out of communication over a set time, dispatchers can send help. There is a personal distress beacon carried by each officer, in the vehicle and on the computer which, when pressed, signals that an officer is in trouble. Body armour is supplied to officer. They wear tool belts complete with handcuffs and cars all have sirens and lights.

“In rural areas, being aware of your surroundings is very important. You want to be aware of where you’re at, at all times,” said Taylor.

Skibiinsky said that for any areas of concern within the municipality, the department suggests that two officers respond as a team. There are also flags placed on response addresses that have had concerns in the past. He said that the RCMP is very cooperative with any support asked for by the peace officers.

Council questioned what the officers felt about the public’s attitude when they responded to the calls.

“On the whole, people respond 90 per cent positively to us. The 10 per cent negative element don’t identify whether it is an RCMP or Peace Officer. All they see is the uniform,” said Taylor, a fact that makes the position dangerous.

Taylor advised council of the department’s participation in the memorial ceremonies for slain High River officer Rod Lazenby, held on Aug. 24 in High River. They will drive a squad car in the memorial parade. Council responded that they will also send a letter of condolence to the family for the ceremony.