The partnership between local RCMP Constable Tony Curti and Lanna Koethler has been immortalized.
The two work together on presentations to kids about addiction.
Their story is written about in Why We Serve - Stories of Today's RCMP Members by the National Police Federation.
"People need second chances," is what Curti hopes people take away from the story. "I know that comes with some reservations saying that. I know some people will say that some people get a lot of chances and they still don't do it. But you've got to have a little bit of trust. You've got to have a little bit of faith and take that leap. I just took my chance with her, and it paid off. She never disappointed."
Curti wasn't always optimistic about the idea of working together. He had some difficult interactions with Koethler before she turned her life around and offered to speak to kids with him.
"Had a lot of run ins with and just started off on the negative," he said. "One day she got out of all the stuff that she was in jail and whatnot, and I was just starting my position (as a School Liaison Officer with the Swift Current Comprehensive High School). I wasn't sure about doing this. I had a lot of feedback from my supervisor saying that's probably a bad idea you're going to get burnt. I felt like I was going to be burnt too. But I had to give it a chance."
Once they started to work together Curti could see the impact Koethler could make in her presentations.
"She's a very well-spoken and intellectual person," Curti said. "She presented well, and she did it with such conviction and believability. So just one after the other, grade after grade, year after year we just kept on. Every year we get the grades six, sevens, and eights, and then nines and tens, and whoever we haven't talked to. I think the message is received."
For Curti, seeing the difference he and Koethler have been able to make with their presentations has been really meaningful.
"It's the kind of thing that you dream about as a police officer," he said. "You always talk about making a difference, but to actually make a difference, you know? Take chances on people and hope that they work out. I mean that's what that's why I joined."
You can read a copy of the book at Swift Current City Hall.