RCMP L Division 2014/2015 - Year in Review

Table of contents

• Message from the Commanding Officer
• Message from the Minister
• National strategic priorities
• Provincial priorities
• Your provincial police service RCMP P.E.I. priorities
• Divisional review and statistics
• Federal policing
• Contract policing
• District policing
• Specialized support services
• Special events
• Mission, core values and vision

Message from the Commanding Officer

I am honoured to present to you the Prince Edward Island Royal Canadian Mounted Police Annual Review for the fiscal year April 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015. This document serves as an overview of our work as the Provincial Police Service on Prince Edward Island.

The time span for this year's Annual Report depicts a period during which I was proud to oversee the offices of the Commanding Officer as well as Criminal Operations for our Division. Working in these two capacities has allowed me to continue to be very engaged in front-line policing in the communities of P.E.I., while fostering strong partnerships with our municipal policing partners, as well as officials from our First Nations, municipal, provincial and federal governments.

Our mission: to meet future challenges, commit to preserving the peace, uphold the law and provide quality service in partnership with our communities is something that is integrated into our work every day, from one tip of Prince Edward Island to the other. The challenges of policing change every day, and in order to adapt, we must change, too. We are continually improving our processes and approach to provide a world-class policing service for P.E.I. This past year we enhanced our profile on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, further facilitating two-way communication, and ultimately bringing us closer to the citizens we serve. By leveraging both traditional and social media we continue to extend our reach, thereby increasing our transparency and accountability to the public.

Prince Edward Island is a beautiful place to live, do business, and as over a million people a year will attest to, an enchanting place to visit. We want to ensure that safety, through integrated and progressive policing, is a foundation to that reputation. During this past year, the RCMP significantly increased our Intelligence Section by way of additional Criminal Analysts. The RCMP employs these specially trained Criminal Analysts to gather intelligence that supports local policing strategies and crime trends. Information is then provided to front-line police officers, who use it to identify, prevent, and solve criminal acts, which reduces overall crime and victimization in our communities. We have seen tremendous success in reducing crime across our province through the use of Criminal Analysts.

Every day I see first-hand how dedicated the Island RCMP employees are in delivering the best possible service to communities across the Island. But, policing itself is not the sole priority. Regardless of where you travel across the province, it is very likely an RCMP officer or employee is engaged in making their community a better place to live. I, along with many others, receive letters from citizens thanking the RCMP for their commitment and dedication and for their contributions to their communities.

I would ask that you please take some time to review the information provided in this document and to familiarize yourself with the many services we provide. The RCMP is proud to serve you and proud to be the Provincial Police Service on Prince Edward Island.

Message from the Minister

Living and working in a safe province is one of our privileges as Islanders, and we are pleased to rely on our policing partners to provide the support and services necessary to assure our sense of community safety.

Through the Attorney General's role as chief law enforcement officer of the province, we depend on our provincial policing services agreement with Public Safety Canada for RCMP services to our communities.

In Prince Edward Island, the RCMP provides policing services to approximately 63% of our Island population and patrols 98% of our land and waterways. As an active partner, the RCMP provides specialized resources to municipal police services and leadership in complex joint investigations. This collaboration works toward providing a province-wide and seamless police service, which is an important objective for the Attorney General.

Through a tripartite agreement with Canada, we also ensure the provision of dedicated specialized services to each of the First Nations communities in the province. With the recent recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we look forward to our continued work on our positive relationship with the Abegweit and Lennox Island communities.

PEI is not immune to the risks of the larger world community, and during 2014-15, a revised model for the operation of the Criminal Intelligence Service Prince Edward Island (known as CISPEI) was implemented under the leadership of the RCMP. CISPEI provides a province-wide criminal intelligence service founded on leadership of the RCMP and partnership with the three municipal police services in the province.

The federal policing function of the RCMP in the province is critical in maintaining a vigilance regarding organized crime as well as economic and national security issues that impact the province. As Attorney General, I am proud to have the RCMP as our partner and thank the members for all they do in the service of their fellow Islanders.

National strategic priorities

National security

The potential of terrorist criminal activity in Canada and abroad is currently the greatest threat to Canada's national security. The role of the RCMP is to prevent, detect and respond to this type of criminal activity, as there is an organizational necessity to ensure response to these threats is strategically aligned, focused and controlled. Investigative successes are generally determined by sound leadership, flexibility and collaboration with foreign and domestic law enforcement partners. It is essential that the RCMP constantly improve information sharing practices with partners and other federal agencies, deliver educational strategies to assist with the avoidance of Canadians becoming victimized, and ensure Senior Management and Government representatives are aware of threats in a timely fashion.

Youth

Youth continues to be one of the RCMP's five national strategic priorities. Issues that remain a priority focus in this area include substance abuse, bullying, cyberbullying, youth violence and impaired and distracted driving. To assist with the reduction of youth victimization and crime, the RCMP continues to support approaches consistent with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, to concentrate efforts on risk factors, early intervention and prevention methods, and foster youth empowerment and engagement.

Serious and organized crime

Organized crime affects everyone. The impacts may be experienced by Canadians in various ways including the loss of tax revenues from contraband alcohol and tobacco, increased auto insurance premiums as a result of vehicle thefts by organized crime groups, and increased banking fees due to financial institutions recovering fraud costs. In addition, Canadians' health and safety may be affected by Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, street gangs, and traditional organized crime groups in the areas of drug-related violence, faulty counterfeit goods, and neighborhood marihuana grow operations. Rapid advances in technology have greatly contributed to the growth in organized crime activity in recent years and Canadians may become victims in this area through such activities as identity theft, email scams, and phishing. Organized crime is considered a global issue which cannot be fought solely within Canadian borders. By utilizing advances in tech crime, keeping ahead of technology, and conducting robust organized crime investigations with well-trained specialists, the RCMP are world leaders within the intelligence alliance through working and supporting this national priority.

Aboriginal communities

Nationally, the RCMP provides service to more than 600 Aboriginal communities. The delivery of culturally sensitive police services provides the foundation necessary to build and enhance relationships with the Aboriginal people served. The RCMP contributes to healthier and safer Aboriginal communities by promoting the recruitment of Aboriginal people as potential employees and police officers, by working collaboratively with the communities to ensure enhanced service delivery is provided, and by contributing to the development of community capacity to prevent crime through ongoing social development.

Economic integrity

The nature of crimes affecting Canadian economies is quickly changing. Through technological advances and globalization, criminals are operating beyond RCMP jurisdictions by utilizing sophisticated and progressive methods. The RCMP continues to work with key partners and engage communities in addressing economic crime. A strategic focus continues to be placed on corruption, scams, frauds, and the counterfeiting of currency, wherever it may occur. Economic-related crime such as credit and debit card fraud is estimated to cost Canadians five billion dollars every year. This translates into $600 per year per family of four.

Provincial priorities

Intelligence-led policing

One of the most significant aspects of effective policing in Prince Edward Island is the ability of police agencies to cultivate and share intelligence. Due to the Island's small geographic size, the criminal element continually overlaps policing jurisdictions, making it crucial to ensure intelligence is being produced and shared. A new intelligence model was developed last year for Criminal Intelligence Services Prince Edward Island (CISPEI). This unit is comprised of Criminal Analysts who service the RCMP, as well as its municipal policing partners across Prince Edward Island. A more focused approach has been taken with respect to intelligence-led policing which now includes a more robust crime reduction component. The Crime Reduction Analysts identify crime patterns and develop evidence-based recommendations to police commanders regarding the deployment of resources. This assists in ensuring a more focused impact on reducing victimization across Prince Edward Island. CISPEI also continues to work closely with, and provides strategic analysis assistance to the RCMP Federal Investigation Unit, as well as joint forces projects.

In addition to working with its municipal policing partners, CISPEI continues to develop relationships with partners such as the Department of Justice and Public Safety, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Parks Canada, Correctional Service Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency. Through enhancing information gathering processes and the sharing of intelligence, policing services on Prince Edward Island will continue to be enriched.

Road safety

A strategic focus on road safety continued this year on Prince Edward Island. Despite being referenced as one of the safest places to live and work in Canada, the Island continues to experience issues with serious traffic collisions, the non-use of seatbelts, and impaired, distracted, and aggressive driving. Each of the three RCMP districts has road safety initiatives identified on their annual performance plans and will continue to do so in the coming year. In addition, the RCMP has included high-level strategic initiatives in relation to safety in its Divisional Annual Performance Plan to ensure an even more concentrated approach to combating road safety matters across Island roadways.

Illegal drug use

The use of non-prescribed prescription drugs and illicit drugs among Islanders continues to be a foremost concern for the RCMP in Prince Edward Island. The use of these drugs has significantly increased in recent years and continues to escalate. As a means to assist with combatting this issue, a Provincial Prescription Drug Committee was formed in 2012. Stakeholders involved with this Committee include the RCMP, the Department of Justice and Public Safety, Charlottetown and Summerside Police Services, the Prince Edward Island Pharmacy Board, the Prince Edward Island College of Physicians and Surgeons, and the Provincial Department of Health.

The Committee's mandate includes informing government departments, police agencies, boards, community groups, and agencies as issues arise regarding prescription drug abuse, continuously monitoring the scope of the problem by sharing information across various sectors and departments, identifying emerging issues as they develop, identifying partnerships among interested individuals and organizations, and creatively developing approaches and solutions from a multi-sectoral perspective.

Technological crime

Presently, the RCMP Technological Crime Unit consists of one dedicated police officer. The role of this position is to investigate all pure computer crime and theft of telecommunications services where computers or content of the computers are objects of a crime. The position also provides direct support to investigative units where computers and electronic devices are used to facilitate crimes related to drug trafficking, national security, possession, distribution and manufacturing of child pornography, homicides, and various other major crime offences.

Over the past five years there has been a large increase in the number of Internet child exploitation incidents reported to police in all jurisdictions across Canada; Prince Edward Island is no exception. Access to the internet has grown tremendously over the past few years and it continues to do so; that technological growth directly results in an increase in the number of investigations processed by the Island RCMP.

Your provincial police service RCMP P.E.I. priorities

Your provincial police service

The RCMP is proud to have completed its 82nd year as the provincial police service on Prince Edward Island. The RCMP continues to work with the Provincial Government to explore ways to deliver a modern and innovative police service. Island RCMP continues to recognize efficiencies in service delivery. With the restructuring of policing boundary lines last year, and the implementation of 24-hour policing across the province, the RCMP has been able to provide smarter policing which has proven more efficient and effective. These modifications have also allowed Island RCMP to strategically reallocate resources and to focus on higher priority activities such as crime analysis and intelligence gathering.

The annual Divisional strategic planning process was further streamlined this year, reducing administrative burdens on various personnel and simplifying reporting obligations both internally and externally. The Island RCMP continues to enhance its partnerships with municipal policing agencies in Charlottetown, Summerside, and Kensington, renewing joint forces operations and engaging in joint major projects. Also, the RCMP is fortunate to have a strong working relationship with the Provincial Government as well as with its various partners such as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. All of these factors assist with contributing to the overall goal of providing a safe and secure province for the citizens of Prince Edward Island.

Recruiting

Over the past year, recruiting efforts have ramped up across the country. The RCMP has identified a dedicated recruiting position within Island RCMP. The Recruiting Officer has delivered 20 percent more career presentations and is scheduling more testing at various times throughout the year. The Recruiting Officer has made several visits to high schools throughout P.E.I. They are also responsible for scheduling as well as administering the entrance exam. This year the Recruiting Officer also attended numerous public events and school job fairs throughout the province. In fiscal year 2014-2015, the RCMP set up a career booth during the P.E.I. Home Show, which provided the Recruiting Officer with exposure to the public while promoting the RCMP as a career choice.

Island RCMP continues to remind its employees that everyone is a recruiter. RCMP Detachments in Prince, Queens and Kings Districts have identified recruiting champions while some employees act as mentors to assist the general public should they be considering a career with the RCMP.

Training

Annual recertification was delivered on P.E.I. in April and May of 2014. All operational police officers were in attendance. Annual firearm qualifications were completed in September, while specific patrol carbine (rifle) training was delivered to police officers in September and October. In addition to the annual recertification training provided to police officers, this past year saw the Division focusing on three key areas with respect to the training of employees: violence in the workplace, respectful workplace awareness, and reducing conflict effectively. The upcoming year will see more police officers trained as patrol carbine instructors, with enriched training in relation to this firearm being delivered.

Divisional review and statistics

Atlantic Review and Performance Centre

The Atlantic Review and Performance Centre provides quality training, mentoring and performance feedback to supervisors and managers in order to maximize their supervisory, management, and leadership skills. This progressive, proactive, and innovative unit provides the highest quality service through dynamic leadership, education, evaluation, and mentoring in partnership with the diverse clients the unit serves. During this past year, 13 Management Reviews and two Directed Reviews have been conducted throughout the Atlantic Region. Also, a number of Supervisor Development and Manager Development Program courses have been facilitated throughout the Atlantic Region. Although the unit is physically located in Charlottetown, remote offices are situated in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland.

2014-2015 Final Expenditures

L Division Criminal Activity 2014/2015 Fiscal Year

Federal policing

In the second year of the new federal policing structure in Prince Edward Island, the benefits are clearly evident. This past fiscal year, the Island RCMP Federal Investigation Unit has seen several positive results in diverse areas. We concluded an organized crime investigation that spanned three provinces. A second project on an organized crime group operation in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick was completed with the assistance of our federal partners in New Brunswick. This file had a direct impact on the prescription pill supply on the Island. In addition to these files we also had a national security investigation which resulted in an application of peace bond. Beyond these files our members were involved in several protective events including a Royal Visit last May.

Our intelligence unit, which is now integrated with Criminal Intelligence Services Prince Edward Island, has generated some excellent products to assist our police officers and policing partners, in particular, regarding the Outlaw Motorcycle Gang presence on P.E.I. These results are directly linked to the new service delivery model and the intended outcomes are being produced. The success to date of this new structure will ensure the relevance of having a robust federal policing presence on P.E.I. in the future.

Moving forward, there will still be significant pressures to manage; however, with the great work currently being completed by police officers and RCMP employees overall, this will be easily administered.

Federal Investigation Unit

This past fiscal year has been a busy one for the Prince Edward Island RCMP Federal Investigation Unit (FIU). The operational focus of the unit is to combat organized crime and to enforce numerous federal statutes such as the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Canada Shipping Act. This year the unit completed a two-year investigation under the BIA which resulted in the conviction of a P.E.I. resident for bankruptcy fraud. A seven month investigation, Project "Lunge", was launched to investigate the trafficking of illicit drugs (cocaine, hashish, and opiate pills) to the Island, resulting in charges being laid against four Islanders as well as persons from New Brunswick and Quebec. A large quantity of illicit drugs and more than $300,000 in cash were seized during this operation. Project "Salutation" continued throughout fiscal year 2014-2015 resulting in a peace bond application by FIU in response to a fear that an Island man would commit a terrorism offence. Police officers working in FIU are involved in many marine activities including inland water patrols at special events such as the Canada Day celebrations as well as the ongoing enforcement of the Canada Shipping Act and Small Vessel Regulations.

Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs

Over the past year RCMP on Prince Edward Island have been closely monitoring the activities of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs. This includes observing events organized by these individuals which are often attended by Outlaw Motorcycle Gang members from across Canada. This monitoring has provided RCMP with intelligence that not only identifies the vast membership of some of these groups, but the various clubs that are being formed in support of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs across the country and abroad. Island RCMP remain diligent in their overt interaction with these groups to ensure the safety of Island communities and citizens.

Contract policing

Police Dog Service

The RCMP Police Dog Service is based out of Queens District and provides support to all three RCMP Districts on Prince Edward Island. In addition, this unit provides services to other law enforcement agencies such as Charlottetown, Summerside, and Kensington Police Services, as well as the Provincial Correctional Centre. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year long. The Police Dog Service also works closely with the Emergency Response Team and is deployed with the team on operational calls. The unit's primary role is to assist in a variety of calls for service including but not limited to drug searches, assaults, robberies, missing persons, and break and enters.

A second Police Dog Service position has been recently created on Prince Edward Island and will be filled in the near future. The new handler will be stationed in Prince District. This new position will improve the service delivery across the Island and provide an enhanced coverage for busier times of the year. The second dog will be trained as a general-duty dog with an explosive detection searching profile. This component will be a large asset during VIP visits, and when dealing with threats related to bombs and terrorism.

Forensic Identification Services

The P.E.I. RCMP Forensic Identification Section (FIS) consists of two Forensic Identification Specialists. These specialists are responsible for providing crime scene support to the three RCMP Districts, Federal Investigation Unit, Major Crime Unit, Parks Canada, and Kensington Police Service.

During 2014-2015, FIS responded to 180 calls for service throughout the Island. One of the more diverse investigations involved searching for and processing physical evidence at a double homicide where forensic evidence played an important role in the conviction of the suspect. FIS also attended several deaths where examination of the scenes assisted in ruling out foul play. Two of these were incidents of found human remains. This year also saw FIS delivering training to police officers in crime scene approach and handling of exhibits.

Operational Communications Centre

The Divisional Operational Communications Centre (OCC) is the hub of policing on Prince Edward Island, operating around the clock. This unit is the essential communication link for RCMP clients, partners, stakeholders, and other policing agencies across the Island.

This past year has presented a number of challenges as a result of staffing turnover, new supervisors, and role modification. In addition, working through one of the worst winters in Island history proved difficult for OCC employees, as this unit never closes and must be manned operationally 24 hours per day. Many OCC employees went above and beyond their duties and in one case operators were stranded working in the OCC for 36 hours before their relief was able to take over. Due to their specialized training, OCC employees participate in a number of Divisional activities each year. Some of the significant events OCC employees took part in this past year were the Cavendish Beach Music Festival and assisting with the Divisional annual recertification training process.

Information Management and Information Technology

In 2014, Information Management and Information Technology (IMIT) focused on compliance, integrity, education, and awareness. From an information management perspective, the unit has worked tirelessly to ensure data holdings remain compliant with federal legislation. The unit has also delivered numerous training sessions to employees and to policing partners, as well as conducted audits in support of these initiatives. The unit will continue to focus on ensuring effective management of information resources as the transition to a new email and document management solutions system is completed.

From an information technology perspective, in 2014 the unit continued to work closely with provincial partners toward the end goal of implementing a public safety grade radio system on P.E.I. The Province of P.E.I. has reached an agreement with Bell Mobility to implement such a system on the Island. The project completion date is set for November of 2015. This system will allow secure communications for public safety first responders and will provide an effective medium for local and regional interoperability. The implementation of this system will be the number one priority for P.E.I. IMIT in 2015-2016.

Aboriginal communities

Maintaining the priority to build stronger Aboriginal communities, the RCMP is committed to working collaboratively with partners and Aboriginal organizations. With the ultimate goal to contribute to the health and safety of Aboriginal communities, RCMP work to develop community engagement to assist with the prevention of crime through social development. In addition, the ongoing consultation and delivery of culturally-appropriate policing services strives to meet the needs of all.

On Prince Edward Island, the RCMP is proud of its relationship with First Nations Communities. RCMP police officers provide policing services to two Aboriginal Bands, Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations in line with Community Tripartite Policing Agreements, proven to create strong partnerships through open communication. District Commanders consult regularly with First Nations leaders and citizens to identify policing needs which are incorporated into proactive annual plans for both the communities and the RCMP. To enhance cultural awareness, our police officers attend events such as local PowWows and cultural training to learn and interact with residents. Island RCMP continues to build and maintain strong relationships with Aboriginal leaders and communities.

District policing

Prince District

The 2014-2015 fiscal year in Prince District saw a continued focus of policing resources in areas that were of greatest concern to our communities. These priorities included road safety, organized crime involving the trafficking and abuse of drugs, and the safety of families, youth, and seniors.

Prince District is comprised of East and West Prince Detachments with East Prince Detachment and Prince District Headquarters co-located in North Bedeque. West Prince Detachment is located in Rosebank, near the community of Alberton. Policing services are strategically delivered from these locations through a four-watch system with a team leader in charge of each watch.

Prince District RCMP provides policing service to a large number of communities over an extensive geographic area covering all of Prince County with the exception of the municipalities of Summerside and Kensington, and also extends into a portion of Queens County. Prince District provides policing services to four communities under Enhanced Service Agreements(ESA). These communities include Borden-Carleton, O'Leary, Alberton, and Tignish. A Community Tripartite Agreement(CTA) also exists with Lennox Island First Nation whereby a police officer is assigned to full-time duty within that community. Also, the Province of P.E.I. is contracted through Transport Canada to provide policing services to the Confederation Bridge.

This past year was a successful one with initiatives designed to reduce death and injury on the roadways having a major impact. Reducing instances of impaired driving through both education and enforcement continued to be the top priority. In the past year, enhanced training of police officers resulted in achieving a substantial increase in the apprehension of drivers who were impaired by drugs. Distracted drivers are another area of concern and can be considered the "new impaired driver". Cell phone usage while operating a motor vehicle is of concern to all citizens and both increased awareness of the issue through education and a zero tolerance approach to enforcement have been strategies utilized in addressing this issue.

A very challenging winter stretched emergency responders' ability to help those in need across the Island and it was no different in Prince District. Keeping the traveling public safe during treacherous conditions involved flexibility, clear communication, and cooperation with the public.

Prince District RCMP continue to tackle the issue of drug trafficking and abuse that impacts all in society. The joint forces Street-Level Drug Unit (SLDU) is comprised of RCMP and Summerside Police Services police officers, and has recently expanded to include Kensington Police Services. This unit has played a key role in the successful targeting of drug traffickers through integrated intelligence gathering and sharing. Those participating in the organized crime of drug trafficking as well as groups they associate with in the enterprise remained a focal point in 2014-2015. The SLDU played a key role in reducing the supply of drugs to communities across the Island.

Prince District police officers work diligently to ensure communities are safe. They are directly supported by civilian employees who are often the face of the RCMP in responding to enquiries and providing emergency response service to the public at the detachment. They also provide critical support to RCMP police officers while they carry out their daily duties. Prince District employees are committed to providing excellent service to the public and look forward to continued success in addressing the needs of the diverse communities served.

Queens District

Queens District's 2014-2015 priorities focused on selective highway traffic education and enforcement, enhanced inter-agency partnerships, community safety activities, and crime reduction strategies targeting seniors' fraud and prescription drug abuse amongst youth.

Our proximity to the provincial capital, the Towns of Cornwall and Stratford, as well as the Cavendish Beach Resort Municipality bring a number of challenges inherent with increases in population, especially during the summer months. Queens District made a significant impact in highway traffic safety and enforcement over the past year through the use of large scale selective highway traffic enforcement initiatives that focused on speed, distracted driving, seatbelt compliance, and impaired driving by drugs and alcohol. With the use of widespread media, targeted messaging, plain-clothes officers, involvement with Mayors and Council, and other government officials, the "Leave the Phone Alone" campaign has been a huge success.

Over the past fiscal year, Queens District police officers continually investigated impaired driving offences, delivered traffic safety presentations, proactively initiated check stop operations and continued to issue summary offence tickets for highway traffic infractions, which included distracted driving and seatbelt violations. Proactive work in traffic enforcement including assistance to the Town of Stratford with their "Move Over, Share the Road, Respect Others" campaign is recognized as a best practice regarding the education of safe driving practices.

As employees of Canada's national police force, we take pride in our contributions and continue to work hard at strengthening our strategic partnerships. We continue to work with young people on issues such as prescription drug abuse, anti-bullying, and internet safety. We are involved in the communities we serve. Our Community Policing Officer, Abegweit First Nation's Officer, and School Liaison Officers work closely with groups such as Stratford and Cornwall Citizens on Patrol and Mothers against Drinking and Driving to lead initiatives such as the National Prescription Drug Drop-Off Program and Pink Ribbon Anti-bullying Campaign. The efforts dedicated to these programs pay in dividends. Our major incident planning and organizing at the annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival, where nightly attendance exceeds 25,000 people, is another best practice in working together with a diverse range of agencies and organizations under a unified Incident Command System. Our employees have also contributed several hundred hours of volunteer time to various initiatives, including coaching, participation on local volunteer boards, and involvement on school advisory committees.

Drug enforcement and combatting prescription pill abuse will always remain a priority for the RCMP. We are working diligently to identify and monitor prolific offenders and increase street-level drug crime enforcement within Queens District. Our involvement with other law enforcement agencies in the province, CISPEI, and RCMP Kings and Prince Districts have resulted in a number of very successful street-level drug crime investigations over the past year, as well as the dismantling of a number of drug targets identified in the Provincial Threat Assessment. Non-prescribed prescription drug abuse and drug impaired driving are emerging as a significant concern. Increased focus in education and enforcement regarding these areas will be delivered across the spectrum in the upcoming year.

Our priorities moving forward will remain focused on making Island roads safer, preventing crime in our communities, and continuing to strengthen relationships while working together to address mutual issues of concern. On behalf of all employees of Queens District, we thank the general public for their continued assistance and support. I also want to recognize our employees - our men and women in uniform, and all those in supporting roles - for their continued pursuit of excellence in police service delivery.

Kings District

The past fiscal year was challenging for employees as well as members of the general public residing in the communities policed by Kings District RCMP. In August 2014 police officers responded to a horrific double homicide in the community of St. Mary's Road. A suspect was quickly identified, arrested, and successfully prosecuted and it was gratifying to see how the public has supported the families of the victims in the months following this tragedy.

In November 2014, police officers responded to a non-fatal shooting that occurred in Valleyfield. As a result charges were laid against two individuals. As well as these incidents, police officers responded to a number of other deaths in the district, including an accidental shooting and two fatal motor vehicle collisions. These incidents were very disturbing to many people, and it is a testament to the resilience of the residents to witness how well individuals and communities have recovered.

Each year Kings District sets policing priorities in consultation with various provincial and municipal partners. This past fiscal year saw a focus on reducing crime, road safety, and combatting the misuse and trafficking of drugs. To assist in utilizing police resources in the most effective manner, a large part of our work in reducing crime was identifying those who are committing the most crimes – prolific offenders. Once these individuals are identified, we then direct our efforts to monitoring their activities and apprehending them once they commit offences.

Ensuring road safety in Kings District is an important priority. Police officers will continue to conduct enforcement to detect and apprehend individuals committing three offences that often lead to serious or fatal collisions: distracted driving, failure to wear seatbelts, and impaired driving. In the past fiscal year, injury collisions in the district dropped, as did collision fatalities. Additionally, Kings District police officers increased the amount of summary offence tickets written, including the distracted driving charges, which are usually a result of using a cellphone while driving. Checkpoints are an effective way to detect impaired drivers and these were used by Kings District members in an effort to detect impaired drivers. Despite an increase in checkpoints and other measures used to detect impaired drivers, the number of charges decreased compared to the previous year. Given the increase in our efforts to detect impaired drivers, I believe the decrease in the number apprehended demonstrates that drivers in Kings District are "getting the message" in relation to driving while impaired, and that the number of impaired drivers on the roads of Kings District is decreasing.

Apprehending those participating in drug trafficking activities remains a priority of the Kings District RCMP and we have two police officers dedicated to a Street-Level Drug Unit (SLDU) who are actively conducting drug-related enforcement and education within the District. The trafficking and misuse of prescription pills remains a significant problem and the SLDU had a number of successful searches and seizures of pills. Intelligence gathering, as well as dissemination of tips and other information from the public, are important tools in combatting all types of criminal activity. They have and will continue to play a large part in many of our successes. Monitoring those suspected to be involved in organized crime, including Outlaw Motorcycle Gang activity, is a priority for the District.

The previous fiscal year saw the area policed by Kings District increased when the boundary was pushed further north-west, encompassing a number of communities including Fort Augustus, Vernon River, Avondale, and Cherry Valley. Given the traffic and call volumes between Queens and Kings Districts, this expansion made sense, and has had a minimum impact on policing in Kings District.

After serving as the Kings District Operations NCO, I assumed my duties as the Kings District Commander in November, 2014. I am grateful for the support I have received from the Kings District employees. I wish to acknowledge the dedication to duties and professionalism each and every one of them has displayed during some difficult times over the past fiscal year. Kings District has an excellent working relationship with the communities it polices, as well as with the various government and non-government agencies we interact with on a regular basis. I look forward to continuing to work with our employees and partners to ensure we provide the residents of Kings District with safe communities in which to live.

Specialized support services

Tactical troop

The P.E.I. RCMP Tactical Troop is comprised of 24 police officers, including all three Island RCMP Districts, Headquarters, and Charlottetown and Summerside Police Services. It is part of an integrated troop with Nova Scotia. The team meets twice a year as part of the mandatory training process, with the training held in Aldershot, Nova Scotia. The Tactical Troop has specialized units such as Less Lethal, Arrest, and a Gas and Obstruction Removal Team. Police Service Dogs also train as part of the troop. In the past, the Tactical Troop has been used at the Vancouver Olympics, the G8/G20 Summit in Ontario, during Royal Visits, and at the recent shale gas dispute in New Brunswick. The troop may also be used as Quick Response Teams which are comprised of eight police officers, or as an entire troop. The Tactical Troop is ready to be deployed at a moment's notice.

Emergency Response Team

Prince Edward Island's Emergency Response Team (ERT) consists of police officers from the RCMP, as well as officers from Charlottetown and Summerside Police Services. This is the only integrated ERT in the country with this type of structure. ERT police officers are specially trained and deal with matters above and beyond regular calls for service. These calls include armed and barricaded persons, high-risk prisoner escorts, surveillance, VIP escorts and high-risk warrant executions. This past year, two significant events ERT was involved with were the Moncton shootings and a double homicide in Kings District. ERT also provides assistance on marine intervention options as and when required. All police officers participating on ERT must partake in ongoing monthly training and receive specialized tactical emergency equipment necessary to successfully perform their duties. A higher physical standard must be met and maintained in order to participate on this team.

Ground Search and Rescue

Prince Edward Island Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) is comprised of approximately 95 trained volunteers from across the Island. These individuals are available to respond to calls for lost or missing persons 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In 2014, members of P.E.I. GSAR responded to eight incidents, conducted 15 training exercises, and assisted at 19 community events. In order for this program to run smoothly and to continue advancing, a great deal of skill and effort is required. Prince Edward Island GSAR volunteers undergo monthly training in areas of lost person behavior, search management skills, map and compass skills, first aid, and extraction skills. This past year Cpl. Scott Stevenson received a Commanding Officer's Certificate of Appreciation recognizing his contributions to the program over the past 19 years. Cpl. Stevenson currently assumes the role of L Division GSAR Coordinator.

In 2014, the technical committee on GSAR Standards completed their work with the Canadian Standards Association. Competencies have been established nationally in the areas of Basic Searcher, Team Leader, and Search Manger. Work has now begun in developing the training curriculum to meet the competencies.

Auxiliary program

The Prince Edward Island RCMP Auxiliary Constable program has experienced adjustments this past fiscal year. Due to changing times and potential of increased danger to the volunteers, the program is currently undergoing a review to ensure not only the safety of these individuals, but also the police officers they assist and the general public overall. The Auxiliary Constable program offers community members the opportunity to train and work with front-line police officers in an operational setting. Currently, Prince Edward Island has 19 active Auxiliary Constables who enhance and assist with community policing efforts across the Island.

Special events

Cavendish Beach Music Festival

Cavendish Beach Resort Municipality plays host to the annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival. This event is a three-day music concert that draws an attendance in excess of 25,000 each evening. Island RCMP plays a major role in planning and organizing the security for the event using the Incident Command System (ICS) where agencies partner together and work collectively. The use of unified ICS for this festival has garnered national recognition from federal and provincial emergency planning personnel as a best practice in major event management. Representatives from across Canada have attended the festival to observe the ICS team in action.

VIP and major event security

The 150th anniversary celebrations of the Charlottetown Conference resulted in an extraordinary number of visitors to Prince Edward Island during 2014-2015 including the Royal Visit of Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla, separate visits of Prime Minister Harper and later, his wife Mrs. Laureen Harper, the Governor General and his wife Mrs. Johnston, Consul Generals and Ambassadors from Israel and the USA, and all the Canadian Premiers. In addition, this past year RCMP police officers traveled with the Premier of Prince Edward Island as Security Liaison Officers during trade missions to Asia and India.

Mission, core values and vision

Mission

The RCMP is Canada's national police service. Proud of our traditions and confident in meeting future challenges, we commit to preserve the peace, uphold the law and provide quality service in partnership with our communities.

Core values

Recognizing the dedication of all employees, we will create and maintain an environment of individual safety, well-being and development. We are guided by integrity, honesty, professionalism, compassion, respect, and accountability.

Vision

We will be a progressive, proactive and innovative organization; provide the highest quality service through dynamic leadership, education and technology in partnership with the diverse communities we serve; be accountable and efficient through shared decision making; ensure a healthy work environment that encourages team building, open communication and mutual respect; promote safe communities; and demonstrate leadership in the pursuit of excellence.

Keep in touch!

We want to hear from you. Stay up to date on what is occurring in communities across Prince Edward Island.

L Division RCMP
Twitter: @RCMPPEI and @RCMPPEITraffic
Instagram: @rcmp_pei

PEI Crime Stoppers
1-888-222-TIPS (8477)

Date modified:

2016-03-23