Calgary police say integrated officer operation proving successful

Calgary police are touting the success of an integrated officer operation that launched last month.

Safer Calgary, which combines the forces of police and peace officers, as well as community partners, began on Feb. 17.

The Calgary Police Service says since then, 230 charges have been laid, 1,464 arrest warrants have been fufilled, and 1,060 tickets have been issued.

In addition to enforcement, 1,151 social agency referrals have been made and there have been more than 1,129 business engagements.

Police and peace officers have been working together for several years, but CPS say this focused operation was planned in advance.

The program was expedited to align with a request from the provincial government for enhance collaboration between the different levels of law enforcement.

The CPS Community Engagement Response Teams are partnered with peace officers from Community Safety and Transit Public Safety, as well as community outreach supports for an integrated response, according to CPS.

Teams are sent out in accordance with a CPS operational plan that focuses on a broader data-led strategy to address crime and social disorder in hot spots, particularly downtown and along transit routes.

“Over many years Community Safety has worked in partnership with CPS and Transit Public Safety to address safety in the city, the Safer Calgary initiative is just another way for us to grow and build on our collaboration efforts,” Community Safety Insp. Susan Wall explained. “By working side by side to provide a visible unformed presence we are committed to delivering a safer space for those that work, live and visit our vibrant city and in particular our downtown spaces.”

Acting Deputy Chief of Transit Public Safety, Michael Pratt, says collaborating allows for a more effective reponse and creates a sense of security for those who use transit.

“Through Safer Calgary, Transit Peace Officers go beyond enforcement by connecting individuals seeking shelter on and around transit with vital community resources,” he explained. “By addressing both mental and physical health needs, this initiative takes a proactive, compassionate approach to supporting vulnerable populations while ensuring a safer transit environment for all.”

CPS says the HELP Team is available 24/7 to respond to calls for service involving homelessness and substance use where other types of intervention aren’t necessary.

In the last month, the HELP Team has had 3,163 calls for service, 6,741 client interactions, and provided 11,443 services including 4,997 transports to shelters, hospitals, and other social services.

Drugs, weapons seized

CPS provided some ‘highlights’ from the operation’s first month — including the seizure of 299 grams of fentanyl, 61 grams of methamphetamine, and four grams of cocaine.

Transit officers also found a man who was wanted on outstanding warrants for failing to register on the sex offender registry and failing to attend court. He was arrested.

Police found a man loitering and found a large, black and red sword on him, as well as another knife, and arrested him.

Officers also found a missing 16-year-old girl who was in the company of a man in his 50s with a history of drug trafficking and assaults. The teen was safely returned and connected with supports.

Another highlight, according to CPS, was finding an elderly man who was living in his vehicle and in need of medical care. He was taken to medical appointments and connected to financial assistance and housing supports.