By rdnewsNOW Staff

Sylvan Lake, Bashaw, Sundre

Select local RCMP detachments taking part in online criminal record checks pilot

Sep 22, 2021 | 3:13 PM

Some central Alberta RCMP detachments are among those across the province taking part in the pilot of an online criminal record check tool.

Those detachments include Sylvan Lake, Bashaw, Sundre, Drayton Valley, Drumheller, Consort, Cochrane, Grande Prairie, Provost, St. Albert, and St. Paul.

In an effort to provide simpler, more efficient public service, RCMP say the pilot of an online criminal record check tool begins Sept. 22 in those select Alberta RCMP detachments.

Criminal record check information typically obtained from RCMP detachments can now be accessed online. If the online service option is successful, it will be expanded to other locations.

A criminal record check is obtained to determine if a person has been charged or convicted of a crime. Vulnerable sector checks (VSC) are included in the service provision for criminal record checks. A VSC is a police information check which is done to protect children and other vulnerable people from physical, sexual, mental, and financial abuse. A VSC is the most thorough of all background checks available.

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Mounties say online criminal record checks will be processed within the same timeframe as they are typically done in person and will be mailed to the applicant, unless arrangements have been made for collection at the detachment. The timing of this tool is said to be important and beneficial, as physical distancing measures have encouraged people to minimize gathering and proximity with others.

“The Alberta RCMP is always looking for new opportunities to modernize and streamline our services for all Albertans across the province,” says Deputy Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, Commanding Officer of Alberta RCMP, in a press release. “Online criminal record checks offer an accessible and convenient option. Having contactless service is also ideal in a time when physical distancing may be preferred.”

Criminal record checks will continue to be available in person at all detachment locations, however, and will be the only option for any location area not covered for the pilot program.

If you live in one of the aforementioned pilot detachment areas, you can access online criminal record checks here: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ab/online-criminal-record-checks-verifications-de-casier-judiciaire-en-ligne/index-eng.htm.

For more detail and information about criminal record checks, visit the Government of Canada website at https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/criminal-record-checks.