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By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

looking out for you and your neighbours

RCMP, crime prevention groups encourage Albertans to rally together

Jan 22, 2025 | 10:27 AM

Alberta RCMP are encouraging residents to join local citizen-led crime prevention groups, in a bid to build safer and stronger communities.

RCMP say citizen-led organizations are instrumental in fostering community bonds, providing valuable insights, and building partnerships that support community needs that enhance public safety.

“No one knows a community as well as its residents,” says Chief Superintendent Peter Tewfik, Officer in Charge of Community Safety and Well-being.

“These volunteer-led organizations are our partners. They act as an extra set of eyes and ears in their neighbourhoods and work closely with their local Alberta RCMP detachments. They assist local police by promoting crime prevention education, reporting suspicious or criminal activity, and they strengthen relationships between the police and the community.”

One such group is the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association (ACCPA), led by executive director and former Red Deer County councillor, Jean Bota.

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Bota says when citizens align with law enforcement, it can lead to powerful change.

“Take responsibility, find your connectors within your community, and if you don’t want to lead or take charge, then assist and support others who do want to,” says Bota.

“Ensure there is excellent communication with law enforcement, get involved in Rural Crime Watch groups, ACOPA, neighbourhood groups, and hold community meetings, either virtually or in person. Let your community members know they matter and that someone cares.”

Bota says it really comes down to looking out for your neighbours.

“Criminals don’t like engaged and involved communities,” she says. “They know they are being watched and it’s not safe for them.”

More information is at albertacrimeprevention.com.