Battlefords RCMP are stepping up efforts to tackle property crime with the launch of a new night patrol initiative.
The Property Crime Prevention Police Night Patrols will see officers on foot and bicycle, in both uniform and civilian clothes, circulating through the Town of Battleford and the City of North Battleford at random times and dates.
Inspector Ryan How, Battlefords RCMP detachment commander, said the targeted patrols aim to respond faster to incidents while discouraging crime before it occurs.
“We know from the reports we receive that property crime is a concern in certain areas,” said How. “With these targeted night patrols, we want to respond to property crime calls more rapidly, and we want to deter property crime before it’s committed. Ultimately, we want to tell residents ‘We hear you and we are reorganizing our resources as best as we can to help you feel safer.’”
The patrols will focus on thefts from yards, break and enters, and vehicle thefts. Bicycle thefts will be a particular target, with the RCMP working alongside North Battleford’s municipal Community Safety Officers and using specialized investigative technology.
Chief Lindsay Holm, the city’s director of protective services, said the partnership is an important step in addressing concerns raised by residents.
“The City of North Battleford’s Community Safety Officers are pleased to work on this joint effort with the Battlefords RCMP to address crimes of opportunity,” Holm said. “Data shows us that property crimes are a consistent concern in our community, and we want to assure residents that we understand these incidents impact their sense of safety and wellbeing. This coordinated effort is one of many crime prevention and deterrence initiatives underway in North Battleford to enhance overall community safety and we look forward to seeing the results of these efforts.”
Police say public reporting remains a critical tool in fighting property crime.
“Please do not hesitate to report property crimes,” said How. “It helps decreasing crime in general as property crime is often linked to serious crime. It also helps us make our police patrols more accurate.”
Residents can report incidents in the Battlefords area by calling Battlefords RCMP at 306-446-1720, or by contacting 310-RCMP elsewhere in the province. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911.
The RCMP say crimes against persons and urgent calls for service remain the priority, with routine night patrols continuing alongside the new initiative.
The program was developed in collaboration with the North Battleford Municipal Community Safety Officers and Battlefords Citizens on Patrol.