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2023
ANNUAl REPORT
A Message from
Dale R. McFeE, chief of Police
In looking back on the events of 2023, a remarkable highlight has been the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) ability to adapt in a year filled with hurdles and significant accomplishments. This commitment was evident as we worked to advance public safety efforts, address crime trends, and engage with the public. Despite facing the heartbreaking loss of two of our officers in the line of duty, the EPS emerged stronger, demonstrating exceptional dedication and resilience.
The tragic deaths of Constables Brett Ryan and Travis Jordan will be carried with us forever. I am deeply grateful for our sworn and civilian members’ unwavering dedication and commitment, who continued to provide invaluable service to the community in the face of unthinkable circumstances. Their resilience, compassion, and steadfastness in carrying out their duties during such challenging times exemplify the true spirit of our organization. I would be remiss if I did not also acknowledge the resounding support of the community, who lifted us up when we needed it most.
Amidst these difficult times, the Service made strides in bolstering public safety efforts. As crime and violence trends grew more concerning, we responded by reallocating resources and reiterating that the city’s public spaces must be maintained for the safe and appropriate use of all. Our parks, transit systems, and sidewalks should be free of disorder and criminal activity, including open-air drug use and the often violent and unpredictable behaviour the drug trade brings with it. To address high-crime areas, we adjusted Divisional Beat boundaries and deployed focused units such as our Healthy Streets Operation Centre (HSOC) Community Safety Teams and Transit and Community Safety (TRACS) Teams. We have also pressed forward with our Guns and Gangs strategy, standing up an additional Gang Suppression Team and taking advantage of new tools in our Firearms Investigation Unit.
With the landscape of community safety changing, and many jurisdictions facing the same social issues, EPS and the Edmonton Police Foundation hosted the inaugural Safety of Our Cities conference. This gathering provided a platform for stakeholders to come together, share insights, and collaborate on strategies to address existing gaps in the social safety net and enhance public safety measures. It was inspiring to see so many in attendance, several whom came from across North America, willing to contribute to the conversation, help push the envelope, and advance critical initiatives on an international scale to combat crime and enhance public safety.
Last year, we also introduced a new goal, Connect, Share, and Evolve, into our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan to reflect our continued commitment to learning from our communities while delivering on our legal mandates under the Police Act, Criminal Code, and Provincial standards. With this in mind, we actively worked to help the public better understand EPS officers’ role through various public engagement efforts, including expanding our Know Your Rights campaign and education on Officer Contact Reports. We also hosted new public events like the Chief’s Pride Breakfast and Ramadan Iftar to foster cultural understanding and promote a sense of belonging within the community and throughout our organization. Additionally, we expanded online reporting to include hate incidents, providing those who do not feel comfortable calling police, or attending a police station, another avenue for reporting.
In 2024, we aim to build upon this progress. Our approach continues to be one of balancing empathy with accountability: where the justice system is needed, it is applied, but provide connection to supports through PACT, HELP, the Integrated Care Centre, and other community partnerships. We will continue to listen actively, ensuring that the voices of Edmontonians are heard and considered, helping to guide our strategic and operational decisions while maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment, but we will not shy away from difficult and important discussions, such as advocating for bail reform. We will recognize and celebrate our successes, learn from our challenges, and use them to propel us forward in the year ahead.
The City of Edmonton operates its own municipal police service – Edmonton Police Service (EPS), as legislated under the Alberta Police Act. As outlined in the Alberta Provincial Policing Standards, the EPS is responsible for maintaining peace and order, protecting lives and property, preventing crime, investigating crime, and providing other policing services that are responsive to community needs.
KEY SERVICES TO EDMONTONIANS:
RESPONDING TO CALLS FOR SERVICE
CALLS FOR SERVICE
EVALUATED BY EPS
REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE
TO EPS
EVENTS WHERE EPS
WAS DISPATCHED
INVESTIGATING CRIMES
NUMBER OF FILES
WORKED ON BY
HOMICIDE SECTION
NUMBER OF FILES
WORKED ON BY
ROBBERY SECTION
NUMBER OF DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE CHARGES
LAID BY EPS
MAJOR INVESTIGATIONS
RESPONDED TO BY
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATIONS
NUMBER OF FILES
WORKED ON BY
HATE CRIMES SECTION
Our approach continues to be one of empathy with accountability; where the justice system is needed, and provides connection to supports through PACT, HELP, the Integrated Care Centre, and other community partnerships.
WORKING WITH PARTNERS TO PROVIDE SERVICES
REFERRAL SERVICES
PROVIDED BY YOUTH TEAM
community member interactions
BY the HELP TEAM
REFERRAL SERVICES
PROVIDED BY PACT TEAM
PROVIDING CRIME PREVENTION, DIVERSION, AND EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES
PROACTIVE HOURS
SPENT BY PATROL
WEAPONS SEIZED
VALUE OF ILLEGAL
DRUGS SEIZED
POLICE INFORMATION
CHECK REQUESTS COMPLETED
supporting victims of crime and trauma
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INCIDENTS
RESPONDED TO BY EPS
CLIENTS SERVED
BY CTSS TEAM
PEOPLE DIVERTED
BY THE HSOC TEAM
DELIVERING TRAFFIC SAFETY AND EDUCATION
SPEEDING CHARGES LAID
DISTRACTED DRIVING CHARGES LAID
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES REMOVED
FROM ROADS AFTER FAILED INSPECTION
IMPAIRED DRIVING CHARGES LAID
TRAFFIC AWARENESS SESSIONS HELD
VEHICLE NOISE
CHARGES LAID
WHAT EPS HEARD FROM EDMONTONIANS
The citizen perception survey was developed and conducted by an independent third-party research firm, Advanis Inc. This firm also conducts an annual Canada-wide survey. Data for last year’s surveys were collected from May to June 2023. Participants were randomly selected and invited to participate. The survey included 20,176 participants from across Canada, with 1,727 specifically from Edmonton.
CONFIDENCE IN POLICE
Citizen Perception on the Overall Job of Police in their community.
FEELINGS OF SAFETY
Citizen Perception on how safe they feel when walking alone in their community after dark.
POLICE RESPONSE TIMES
Citizen Perception of responding quickly to calls for assistance.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
IT’S A PROUD MOMENT FOR McCAULEY
The annual McCauley Cup event made its long-awaited return in February. The 12th edition of the event had been delayed for three years due to COVID. The event was created by a Downtown Beat officer 15 years ago, to help bridge the gap between Edmonton police and youth in the inner-city community.
The Edmonton Police Service’s Strategic Plan is the overarching strategy that identifies the priority areas for the Service. It is a culmination of extensive engagement with the communities it serves. Shaped by direction from the Edmonton Police Commission, ongoing dialogues with community groups, consultations with arms of government and law enforcement agencies, collaborations with social service agencies and non-profits, as well as feedback from EPS employees.
The 2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan reflects the collective vision, ensuring that EPS aligns with the values and expectations of the people it serves by defining clear goals and outcomes for this period. There are five goals articulated in the Strategic Plan.
2023 – 2026 STRATEGIC PLAN
BALANCE SUPPORT AND ENFORCEMENT
What it means: Understand individual circumstances and ensure people are appropriately transitioned to systems that provide support and/or enforcement to increase community safety.
INDICATORS
MEASURES
EPS BEGINS POLICE BODY WORN CAMERA TRIAL
In March 2023, the Alberta Government mandated the use of body worn cameras by all police officers. Working towards this mandate, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) began a six-month trial of body worn cameras on July 10, 2023. In total, 35 officers working with Transit and Community Safety Teams, the Healthy Streets Operations Centre (HSOC) Community Safety Teams (CST) and the High-Risk Encampment Teams (HRET) will wear cameras. The EPS will trial various technologies to determine what capabilities best meet the organization’s needs and will then issue a request for proposal to select the most suitable vendor.
Citizens interacting with officers on these teams will notice a camera affixed to the front of their uniforms. The cameras are the approximate size of a deck of playing cards and officers will begin recording when they start a public interaction such as when they start investigating an individual; or when they are asking a person a question for the purpose of collecting their information. While not legally required to do so, officers will do their best to advise citizens when they are being recorded.
The goals of body worn cameras are multifaceted, but overall aim to create a more efficient accountability process and reduce use of force incidents for both officers and the public. Some of the anticipated outcomes include increasing transparency, reducing unfounded allegations of police misconduct, increasing public trust and confidence in the EPS and enhancing officer accountability and professionalism.
The goals of body worn cameras are multifaceted, but overall aim to create a more efficient accountability process and reduce use of force incidents for both officers and the public.
ON TRAC FOR
COMMUNITY SAFETY
In May 2023, the Edmonton Police Service Transit and Community Safety Teams (TRACS) began working in LRT stations and around transit hubs to address increased crime and disorder.
Working closely with City of Edmonton Transit Peace Officers and social agencies like Bent Arrow, the TRACS teams work to provide a measured and balanced response to address crime and disorder while working with community partners to connect people in need to services and social support. There are three TRACS teams with plans to expand that number to six by the end of 2024.
STANDING UP FOR SAFER PUBLIC SPACES
Safer Public Spaces describes the ongoing focused work of EPS with various partners, agencies, and within the health system to ensure violence and social disorder is addressed promptly and adequately. This includes addressing open-air drug use in public spaces. It is based on the foundational principle that all public spaces must be maintained for the safe and appropriate use of all. Learn more about Safer Public Spaces by watching the multi-agency announcement.
EPS’ Major objectives for Safer Public Spaces:
1. Reduce the unacceptable levels of violence, particularly random violence, by addressing all factors contributing to victimization, much of which is closely linked to the drug trade.
2. Effect sustainable behaviour change within public spaces, including the visible use of drugs.
3. Offer support for those who are victimized and links to treatment where willing.
4. Aggressive enforcement of those who are supplying and carrying out the drug trade, who often target and victimize the most vulnerable of Edmonton’s community members.
5. Work with the City of Edmonton to address the unacceptable levels of violence, victimization, and public safety threats tied to encampments.
HELP EXPANDS CITYWIDE
With Government of Alberta funding, the Edmonton Police Service’s Human-centred Engagement and Liaison Partnership (HELP) Unit recently expanded to EPS Patrol branches across Edmonton, with a triage system to manage the complex needs of those struggling with addictions, mental health issues, and houselessness.
HELP branch teams are made up of EPS officers and social agency navigators who engage directly with vulnerable individuals, and enable frontline Patrol officers to concentrate on crime and public safety responsibilities.
In 2023, the new HELP branch teams have had 4,198 interactions with the vulnerable individuals. Since 2021, the core HELP team has assisted with:
The expansion of HELP citywide is crucial to creating Safer Public Spaces which became possible with the collaboration and dedication of EPS social agency partners.
DNA REANALYSIS LEADS TO CHARGES
IN 27-YEAR-OLD HISTORICAL HOMICIDE
The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged a man in the 1996 murder of a 24-year-old woman.
On December 25, 1996, police were called to the woman’s apartment at 34 Street and 119 Avenue after her family had been unable to reach her and became concerned. She was found deceased inside the apartment. A December 26, 1996, autopsy determined the manner of death was homicide.
While numerous exhibits were tested forensically over the years, a confirmed match to a suspect could not be made. On October 22, 2022, the RCMP forensic laboratory re-examined the exhibits and a male DNA profile was generated and linked to a male suspect. On June 14, 2023, EPS arrested and charged the 48-year-old, who was 22 at the time of the murder, and known to the woman, with first degree murder.
“Our hearts go out to her family and friends. This was a tragic file that has plagued them with grief and unanswered questions for 27 years,” says Det. Kevin Harrison, with the EPS Historical Crimes Section. “Thanks to the tenacity of the forensic specialists at the RCMP lab and the EPS investigative team, we have at long last been able to provide some answers to those questions, and hopefully some degree of closure for her loved ones.”
EPS GANG SUPPRESSION TEAM
AND GUNS & GANG STRATEGY
In 2019, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) Gun Crime Violence Reduction Strategy was developed and primarily sought to strengthen EPS capabilities and capacity to close identified deficiencies in firearm investigations, firearm intelligence, firearms evidence collection processes, and policies and procedures.
Gun violence remains a significant public safety concern for the EPS and is the reason the Service continues to work on the Guns and Gangs Strategy 2023-2025.
The strategy lays out a three-year plan to address firearm violence and gang-related crime in the city through three pillars: focused deterrence, investigative excellence, and young people intervention.
It includes short- and long-term solutions that hold those responsible for violence and criminal activities accountable while bolstering EPS’ investigative process, enhancing cross-agency collaboration, and exercising focused deterrence to persuade frequent offenders to exit criminal lifestyles.
The strategy includes the addition of 19 officers to bolster the Organized Crime Branch and increase capacity to address gang activities, shootings and other firearms offences, drug trafficking, extortion and other crimes perpetrated by criminal networks. This will be funded over 2024-26.
Sgt. Ryan Ferry awarded for guns and gangs suppression efforts
Organized crime enforcement, intervention, diversion, suppression, community engagement – it all speaks volumes to the work Sgt. Ryan Ferry has done to contribute to reducing gang and violence activity in the community.
In October, Sgt. Ferry was awarded the Jim Aspiotis Memorial Award
Disarming Edmonton Gangs
In October, Sgt. Ferry and the Gang Suppression Team were featured in a special three-part series produced by Global News called Disarming Edmonton Gangs.
SERVICE AND SACRIFICE:
HONOURING OUR HEROES IN BLUE
Charges laid in line of duty deaths
Amidst the profound grief following the loss of Constables Travis Jordan and Brett Ryan, the community found solace in the dedication and swift action of the EPS. In November, thanks to the tireless efforts of a highly skilled team of officers, EPS made an arrest and laid charges in the case. This accomplishment stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and professionalism of the EPS.
03.16.2023
03.16.2023
EPS OFFENDER MANAGEMENT APPROACH DELIVERS RESULTS
The Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Integrated Offender Management (IOM) Program is based on research which indicates that addressing an offender’s criminogenic risks and needs can reduce the likelihood of reoffending by as much as 40%. This program has three pillars:
The EPS’ Identification and Selection Unit (ISU) utilizes the Offender Identification Matrix to determine which offenders will become IOM clients. ISU selects individuals from the Matrix that commit the most aggregate harm in the city. IOM Officers then work with these offenders using individualized case plans to reduce their instances of offending and the severity of offences they commit, by holding them accountable for any further offences.
IOM Officers have access to social service facilitators and social service providers that form a community service support team. This support team connects the offender with resources to address their needs. IOM works closely with partner agencies to address their basic need such as housing, income support, employment searches, resume building, and access to food banks. To address criminogenic needs (like reducing anti-social behaviour, increasing pro-social leisure time, better family relationships, and reducing substance use), facilitators can connect offenders to mental health and addiction supports for longer-term therapy.
IOM Officers use enforcement tactics when managed offenders relapse into criminality. IOM develops close relationships with both the Crown Prosecutors and Defense counsel and share information on the offender’s behaviour, risks, needs, and compliance. This helps to hold the offender accountable.
In 2023, an evaluation of offender behaviour was conducted based on a sample size of 100 IOM caseloads for the period spanning 2020 – 2022. The key results indicated that there was:
Overall, the program is achieving exceptional results that are leading to positive changes and benefits for offenders and communities.
PARTNER AND ADVOCATE
What it means: Use EPS knowledge and expertise to facilitate effective strategic partnerships that together drive community safety.
MEASURES
PROVINCE DEDICATES 12 SHERIFFS TO HELP
DETER CRIME AND DISORDER IN HOT SPOT AREAS
The province allocated 12 Sheriffs to execute crime-suppression patrols in areas covered by the Healthy Streets Operation Centre (HSOC) Community Safety Teams and other high problem areas. HSOC has been focusing on the areas of Chinatown, Alberta Avenue, the Downtown core and certain Downtown LRT Stations but to date has had to backfill with officers from crime suppression teams across the city.
The teams’ daily goal of high visibility and increased community engagement allowed for more intervention opportunities in a timely manner. These extra resources enable the EPS to provide seven-day HSOC zone coverage and for 20-hours a day. The last shift of the Edmonton Police Service-Alberta Sheriff partnership wrapped up in December.
EPS-ALBERTA SHERIFFS TEAMS BY THE NUMBERS:
INDIVIDUALS
CHARGED
WARRANTS
EXECUTED
VALUE OF PROPERTY
RECOVERED
PEOPLE DIVERTED
TO SHELTERS
VALUE OF ILLEGAL
DRUGS SEIZED
WHAT IS THE HEALTHY STREET OPERATIONS CENTRE?
As the EPS thanks the Sheriffs for stepping up, HSOC continues as a partnership between EPS, City of Edmonton, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, REACH Edmonton, and Homeward Trust. Together, we aim to reduce criminality and victimization, help community members feel safe living, working and being in the area, and improve the health and wellness of all people living in the area. Since November, the HSOC teams – including frontline police officers, Community Safety Officers, peace officers, community safety liaisons, and paramedics, have spent over 600 – hours per month working together in the area.
PARTNERSHIP WITH EPS VITAL
TO U.S. SECRET SERVICE MISSION
The United States Secret Service (USSS) presented Edmonton Police Service Detective James Gainor, Cyber Crime Investigation Unit, with an award of appreciation during a recent visit to Edmonton to recognize his ongoing “assistance and support.”
“Being a federal agency from the United States, we don’t have any jurisdiction in Canada. Having these partnerships with the EPS... is vital to our mission.”
SAFETY OF OUR CITIES CONFERENCE
In September, the Edmonton Police Service and Edmonton Police Foundation hosted the inaugural Safety of Our Cities Conference as an opportunity for members of the public safety community, partners, and stakeholders to come together and share their insights, experience, expertise, and solutions for the complex problems facing our cities today. Many of the safety issues facing communities from around Canada and North America go beyond the criminal justice system and into other areas like addictions, mental health, and health care. The goal of this event was to bring those areas together to talk about real solutions for social disorder, violence, crime, and victimization on our streets.
Other responses from the conference participants:
CONFERENCE
SESSIONS
STAFF
& VOLUNTEERS
SURVEY RESPONDENTS WERE SATISFIED
OR STRONGLY SATISFIED WITH THE CONFERENCE
DIFFERENT AGENCIES
ATTENDED THE CONFERENCE
CONFERENCE STAFF
AND VOLUNTEERS
OF RESPONDENTS STATED THEY DISCOVERED A POTENTIAL SOLUTION TO A CHALLENGE
FACED BY THEIR ORGANIZATION AT THE CONFERENCE
NEW INTEGRATED CARE CENTRE TEAM
OPENS IN EPS POLICE HEADQUARTERS
The former Edmonton Police Service (EPS) headquarters holding cells have been repurposed to provide a safe place for intoxicated individuals to be lodged when they are experiencing mental health and substance use challenges.
The newly named Integrated Care Centre’s (ICC) purpose is to provide detainees arrested for public intoxication, who are unable to care for themselves or be released to a responsible adult, with a space to recover and connect with appropriate support. The ICC is staffed by Community Peace Officers and paramedics on a 24/7 basis. It also operates an on-site partnership with Radius Health to assist detainees in forming a long-term care plan that extends beyond release, integrating health practitioners and other wraparound services in the future.
By the numbers:
EDMONTON POLICE SERVICE PARTNERS
WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA
In October, the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Employee and Organizational Wellness Branch announced a partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada (WWC) that will offer innovative mental health programs and services to EPS members and their families.
Through the partnership, WWC will work closely with the EPS, Edmonton Police Association (EPA), and Edmonton Police Service Veterans Association (EPSVA) to offer services to all of EPS’ active and retired professionals, including support for family members such as kids’ programs and camps. Services come at no cost to the Service, EPA, EPSVA, or, most importantly, members and their families.
CONNECT, SHARE AND EVOLVE
What it Means: As Edmonton and the world are changing, EPS is listening, learning, and evolving with our community. EPS will share more about policing and our people to further humanize the individuals within our membership.
INDICATORS
TOGETHER.
STEP-BY-STEP, SIDE-BY-SIDE.
OPERATION READY SET SCHOOL
GIVES KIDS A GREAT START TO THE SCHOOL YEAR
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION DAY
2023
CHIEF’S PRIDE BREAKFAST
RAISES FUNDS FOR THE CHEW PROJECT
August’s Pride Breakfast hosted by Chief Dale McFee brought together police and the community in support of a worthy cause. Organized by the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Community Relations Section with the help of the Edmonton Police Foundation (EPF) and numerous volunteers and sponsors, the event celebrated the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
The breakfast also supported the CHEW Project in their continued work, offering frontline support to 2SLGBTQ+ youth and emerging adults.
EPS CELEBRATES
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The Edmonton Police Service marked the end of Black History Month with a special celebration and presentations to local high school students. Sponsored by the Edmonton Police Foundation and hosted by the Equity, Inclusion, and Human Rights Branch, the celebration was the first time the Black History Month event was held at police headquarters.
Among the guests were EPS members, local advocates and two cultural performers: Steelpan musician Danielle George and multi-award-winning Poet Laureate Ahmed “Knowmadic” Ali.
EPS
COMMUNITY COUNCIL
The Edmonton Police Service Community Council Members play a pivotal role in enhancing police training and operations by gaining special insights into these areas. Additionally, they provide valuable advice to EPS, aiming to help improve the organization’s services and better cater to the needs of the communities EPS officers serve.
For more information about the Community Advisory Councils visit edmontonpolice.ca/councils
EPS OFFICER AND LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER
FORGE UNEXPECTED FRIENDSHIP IN CHINATOWN
Kim Fat Market is a remarkable establishment—a shop that exudes an aura of secrecy yet holds a revered status among those fortunate enough to be in the know.
The business is run by three generations of the Luu family, with Phong Luu steering the ship. He’s worked in the market, helping his father, since he was eight and is an outspoken member of the Asian community. The storied establishment has been in Edmonton’s Chinatown neighbourhood for 30 years and is on Constable Shayne Cole’s beat with the Disruption Unit under the Health Streets Operation Centre (HSOC).
“I first met Phong in January of 2021. During the course of our duties, we check in with the businesses and see how things are going, and that’s how I got to know him,” said Const. Cole.
Luu and Const. Cole struck up an instant friendship with Luu challenging Const. Cole to pick up a butcher knife and help around the shop. In these little moments, connections are made, and strong relationships are built.
“Shane, even though he’s in uniform, he presents himself as a friend when he comes in. I can open up to him if I have a concern,” says Luu. “If I tell him I have trouble in this corner of my building, he will listen. I tell him how I feel, and then he does his best to help me.”
Luu’s troubles outside his market are like other small businesses in Chinatown. The last few years have been incredibly challenging.
“I would say that it took a turn for the worst. Like, we’d never seen this amount of chaos in our community. Safety is always the number one issue,” says Luu.
Const. Cole understands Luu’s frustration.
“As a police officer, you want to approach every circumstance or situation with a balanced approach so that we consider our community members’ needs and that of the shop owners and the businesses. But at the end of the day, if we don’t have businesses, what do we have?” asks Const. Cole.
Luu does what he can to be respectful but firm with the community and to protect his business and customers. He regularly calls on EPS for support. He likens the relationship with EPS to Batman and him to Robin, but the duo operates under an unnecessary microscope of criticism.
“EPS is always our friend in this community. The members always come here like their logo says to serve and protect. But we have a lot of people who don’t understand. A lot of people walk around with cameras and capture only a moment and try to blame EPS for being aggressive. But they all know our community’s frustration and what we need. It sometimes falls on deaf ears,” says Luu.
Const. Cole wants to see Chinatown thrive like everyone else and feels hopeful about how the community supports one another.
“It is quite a tight community, so that’s nice to see. They all support each other, and if somebody’s having trouble, everybody’s there to help, and everybody’s there to work with each other, including EPS,” says Const. Cole. “There are some great restaurants and markets down here, and it’s small family businesses and multi-generational, so well worth supporting.”
As a police officer, you want to approach every circumstance or situation with a balanced approach so that we consider our community members' needs and that of the shop owners and the businesses. But at the end of the day, if we don't have businesses, what do we have?
INNOVATE AND ADVANCE
AS ONE TEAM
What It Means: As one team, make decisions with EPS overall in mind, and encourage a culture of innovation and advancement.
MEASURES
EPS ADDS ONLINE REPORTING
FOR HATE INCIDENTS
In June, the Edmonton Police Service announced the expansion of online crime reporting to include hate incidents in Edmonton.
Online reporting provides another avenue for Edmontonians to report hate incidents, especially if they don’t feel comfortable calling police or coming into a police station. Individuals can also report on behalf of someone else, which will further assist those who may not feel comfortable, or who may require assistance to report an incident.
Visit edmontonpolice.ca/ReportACrimeOnline to learn more.
NEW TRAFFIC CONCERN FORM
LAUNCHES
After several years of referring the public to a specific email to report traffic concerns, the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Traffic Safety Unit is moving away from this process to establish an online traffic concern form.
As of October 4, 2023, the public can submit their traffic concerns through an online form available at edmontonpolice.ca/trafficconcerns.
The online form will look to streamline the process of addressing traffic concerns submitted by citizens.
Traffic concerns that will be accepted through the form include speeding, sign/traffic light violations, school playground zones, U-turns, pedestrians, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicle noise (exhaust/muffler).
All parking related incidents still need to be reported to the City of Edmonton by calling 311.
EDMONTON POLICE SERVICE’S
NEWEST CRIME FIGHTING TOOL
Tactical and Major Collisions Investigation Units have used drones since 2016. Slemko saw the need to have drones more accessible to Patrol officers.
In the past, frontline officers would have to contact Tactical to access a drone. Now, trained officers can deploy a drone in the field immediately.
Drones offer a different level of versatility that adds significant benefit for officer safety and a cost-effective method for major incident public safety.
Slemko sees drones as a force multiplier, increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the frontline. “If we have a missing person in the river valley, we can deploy a drone that can quickly cover a wide search area as opposed to multiple officers on foot, for a significant period of time.”
All EPS drone operators are trained to Advanced Transport Canada standards.
NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTER ENGRAVING PROGRAM
LAUNCHED IN EDMONTON
The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is partnering with the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) and Kal Tire on the “Tag Your Cat” VIN engraving program to help fight rising catalytic converter theft.
“EPS has been pursuing numerous initiatives to help reduce the growing problem of catalytic converter thefts that go beyond police investigations,” says Superintendent Derek McIntyre. “These include increasing public education, creating new government legislation, and implementing anti-theft strategies such as VIN identification and engraving.”
As of July 6, 2023, vehicle owners could start bringing their car, truck, or van into a participating Kal Tire location in Edmonton to have their catalytic converter engraved with the vehicle identification number (VIN) for $40. Every vehicle with an engraved catalytic converter also receives a warning decal to let potential thieves know that the auto part is marked.
Engraving the VIN on the vehicle’s catalytic converter and having the warning decal visible will help deter thieves and reduce the chance of it being stolen. If the auto part is stolen, police now have the means of linking it back to the crime and holding thieves and scrap metal recyclers accountable.
In August 2022, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) in partnership with the Edmonton Police Foundation (EPF) came forward with the Community Solutions Accelerator challenge to seek new ideas and technological innovations to help solve the ongoing problem of catalytic converter thefts, with $50,000 in prize money donated by the Millennium Insurance Corporation. On January 27, 2023, EPS Chief Dale McFee and EPF Chair Ashif Mawji announced a mother-daughter duo as the first-place winners of the Catalytic Converter Challenge. Their invention of a highly visible and physical deterrent to theft utilizing a simple portable barrier that is held in place when you park could prevent the thefts of catalytic converters.
Overall, 2023 has seen a 48% decrease in reports for theft of catalytic converters compared to 2022.
EPS REVOLUTIONIZING OPERATIONS
THROUGH STREAMLINED RECORDS MANAGEMENT
In the two years leading up to its launch, EPS began preparing by transitioning from out-dated systems and migrating data, this included:
Approximately 2,000 sworn members and 500 civilian employees completed nearly 80,000 hours of training on the new system, and dedicated NicheUA teams were stood up to support the switch and continue to improve functionality within the system. Since implementation, the teams have made 97 system improvements in 2023 alone, with an additional 49 in the queue at the end of December.
As a central point of capture and storage for operational information, NicheUA allows for quality data to investigate crimes, build strong evidential cases, and identify offenders. A more efficient reporting process can lead to better court outcomes, which affects community safety.
SUPPORT AND GROW
DIVERSE TALENTS
MEASURES
LONGEST SERVING EDMONTON POLICEWOMAN
RETIRES
The EPS wishes to express a heartfelt congratulations to all EPS members who retired in 2023 and who have made invaluable contributions and had an enduring impact on the communities we proudly serve. Your dedication and service have left an indelible mark, and we are grateful for your commitment to excellence throughout your careers.
PSD BENDER
HANGS UP THE LEASH
One of the Edmonton Police Service’s crime-fighting duos is hanging up the leash after seven years of service. In their time together, Constable Lauren Croxford and PSD Bender:
They also recently placed fourth overall at the 2023 Canadian Police Canine Association Trials—finishing first overall in track and first in the Iron Dog Competition for women under 40.
13/10 on the good boy scale!
“BACKBONE” OF RECRUIT TRAINING
RETIRES
Debra Leblanc, the unofficial den mother to thousands of Edmonton police recruits, is retiring.
“It’s time for me to sit back, drink my tea, and read my paper.”
Leblanc joined the department in 2002 after a 25-year career with the Canadian military.
She said she wanted to work for an organization she could be proud of. “I went on a lot of job interviews at the time, but the EPS was the only one that fit the bill.”
Leblanc calculates that in her role she has supported:
Superintendent Andria Wasylyshen worked with Leblanc for almost half her career. “Deb really cares about the area. She is passionate about helping and doing the best she can to ensure the training experience for both the trainers and recruits is top notch. She has been the backbone of Recruit Training for many years.”
In her farewell statement to the service, Leblanc called her time with the EPS a rewarding experience. “Thanks to all of you for allowing me to be a small part of your training journeys and giving me a small peep into the policing world. I will never forget you. Stay safe.”
RECRUITS AND EXPERIENCED OFFICERS
JOIN THE RANKS
Edmonton Police Service (EPS) Recruit skills, experiences, and perspectives are valuable assets that help the Service be more responsive to community needs and changing circumstances in the future. After months of rigorous selection, training and testing, the EPS’ newest graduates have proved their readiness to take on this significant role in the community. They showed not only the skills and knowledge needed for the job, but their ability to work within a policing team.
In 2023 the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) welcomed*:
*These numbers reflect newly graduated EPS members in 2023. Totals may vary compared to hired EPS recruits, who – at the time of hiring have yet to complete their training.
Recruiting in 2023
Diversity* in 2023 recruits
*The definition of a diverse hire includes BIPOC, Sexual Minority & gender diverse identification. The diversity stats provided are from self-identification for each hired recruit.
EXPERIENCED OFFICER PROGRAM RETURNS
WITH CLASS #16 AND CLASS #17
Experienced Officer Program (EOP) Class #16 was the first EOP class and graduation held since September 2018. In November, the EPS welcomed six new graduates of EOP Class #17, all of whom previously served with the RCMP.
The Experienced Officer Program recognizes the existing skill sets of trained Canadian Police Officers. Successful EOP hires benefit the Edmonton Police Service through their collective policing experiences and perspectives. This EOP Class is proud to hire three members from the RCMP and one member from the Niagara Regional Police Service.
PROJECT IGNIS:
“IT SHOWCASES THE KIND OF INVESTIGATORS WE HAVE.”
Members of the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Investigative Response Section (IRS) were recognized for their contributions to a major investigation into hundreds of suspicious fires across Edmonton.
In September 2023, Deputy Chief Darren Derko and team lead Staff Sergeant David Graham presented nineteen police officers and two civilian employees with the Award of Merit.
“You came together as a team, tried all different kinds of investigative strategies, and brought it to a successful conclusion,” Deputy Derko told the assembled group. “That’s why we joined this job, that’s why we work together as a team. It doesn’t matter if we are civilian or sworn, you all played a part in it.”
Inspector Shannon Dechamplain of Community Policing Bureau (CPB) said Project IGNIS (Latin for fire) was “a massive collaboration that that made good use of the service’s resources.”
The initial investigative team consisted of three Investigative Response Team (IRT) detectives, an affiant from Financial Crimes, and one analyst.
Dechamplain said, “As the investigation grew, so did the team, growing to a core of ten investigators. Additional investigators were seconded from various investigative areas including Patrol and Beat officers who had detailed knowledge of the players involved, members on modified duties, and a second analyst.”
In June 2021, members of IRS from different Patrol branches became involved in separate criminal investigations into an alleged fraud and suspected residential arson. These investigations, which were ultimately determined to be linked, coalesced into Project IGNIS.
Investigators reviewed hundreds of reports of suspicious fires that occurred between January 2019 and November 2021. Most properties were owned by individuals known to police.
The fires resulted in over a million dollars in damages, the deaths of three family pets, serious injury to a fire fighter, the destruction of a neighbouring home, and, in one instance, the wrong house being set on fire.
As the number of fires grew, so did the pressure.
In the Fall of 2021, IRS received approval for their operational plan, a strategic initiative designed to obtain evidence against the perpetrators.
Investigators began arresting suspects in June 2022, charging them with Arson, Arson Disregard Human Life, Conspiracy to Commit Arson, Conspiracy to Commit Fraud, and Fraud Over $5000.
14 charges were laid in relation to eleven separate incidents. 44 investigations were concluded because of Project IGNIS. The File Coordinator disclosed 23,000 documents to the Crown.
“That’s why we joined this job, that’s why we work together as a team. It doesn’t matter if we are civilian or sworn, you all played a part in it.”
THE ALBERTA WOMEN IN PUBLIC SAFETY (AWIPS)
AWARDS
Four members of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) were among the winners at the Alberta Women in Public Safety (AWIPS) 2023 awards ceremony.
The Top 5 Under 5 is a new category that recognizes outstanding women with under five years of experience in Public Safety. Each of these women started their careers with passion and enthusiasm, and have been recognized by their peers as trailblazers, leaders, and influencers.
Constable Lisa Hudson has dedicated her time to improving safety within a northeast Edmonton neighbourhood where a specific residence was causing issues in the entire community. Through her hard work and dedication, the people in that area feel safer and happier and feel peace has been restored.
Constable Tiffany Papirny has exceeded expectations for a member with less than two years’ experience. She used her background in speech and language therapy to spearhead the development of an application for members’ phones that uses the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), which allows people with little or no communication abilities to communicate using pictures. She continues to advocate for greater communication between police and the autism and diverse learning community to build trust.
The Officer of the Year Award was given to Northeast Constable Katelyn Awar. She was nominated after helping to investigate a series of thefts and robberies which led to two youths being identified as suspects. One youth was referred to the EPS One-80 Unit; the other was already on boarded to Y: Five-O. Constable Awar also received the Award of Merit for saving the life of a woman who had been stabbed at the Coliseum LRT station.
EPS Civilian Kalie Anderson was the 2023 recipient of the Ally Award. Kalie’s leadership in the recruitment process for Emergency Communications Officers has not only resulted in a more diverse workforce but also ensures that every candidate is evaluated based on their skills and qualifications, rather than any preconceived biases. Kalie’s nominator said, “she has worked diligently to implement strategies that promote the hiring of individuals from underrepresented groups, and her commitment to equal opportunity is evident in the remarkable increase in the diversity of our teams.”
AWIPS is a diverse group of women leaders in Alberta Public Safety agencies working to improve opportunities and outcomes for women.
OPERATING BUDGET FUNDING 2023
2023 EXPENDITURES
FUNDING FORMULA UPDATE IN 2023
On August 23, 2023, City Council approved the revised EPS Funding Formula and final budget allocation for 2024-2026 was made during the Fall Supplemental Operating Budget Adjustment process.
CHALLENGES IN CAPITAL BUDGET IN 2023 AND 2024
The 2023-2026 Capital Budget is comprised of 10 active profiles (4 standalone profiles and 6 composite profiles). The total 2023-2026 Capital Budget is $89.108 million which includes the initial approved budget, 2019-2022 budget carryforward, 2023 Spring and Fall Supplemental Capital Budget Adjustments (SCBA), and Year-end Administrative Adjustments.
In December 2022, City Council approved approximately 25% of the Commission supported budget requirement for Police Equipment, Radio Lifecycle, IT Applications and IT Infrastructure renewal projects for 2023-2026. In December 2023, during the 2023 Fall SCBA, City Council approved the City Administration 2024 funding recommendation of $10.610 million for a portion of the unfunded renewal profiles. This results in 41% of the Commission supported budget requirement for Police Equipment, Radio Lifecycle, IT Applications and IT Infrastructure renewal projects for 2023-2026 and a $40.489 million shortfall.
APPENDIX A
INDICATORS
These broad data points are indicative of the safety and wellness of the communities that EPS serves. EPS believes that the actions it takes to influence indicators must be complemented by many other partners and stakeholders to make a meaningful difference.
MEASURES
These data points are more targeted and speak to things that are more within the span of control of EPS to directly influence.
Our goals and corresponding initiatives are identified in the EPS 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, while targeted outcomes are laid out in our 2023-2026 Business Plan along with allocation of resources and expected timelines.
EPS leadership provides an update on its Business Plan to the Edmonton Police Commission (EPC) twice a year in March and in September.
EPS also reports regularly to EPC on its activities. Some of these reports include:
Through these data driven and evidence-based mechanisms, we hold ourselves accountable to the people of Edmonton and provide a means for them to assess our performance as an organization that plays a leading role in improving public safety and community well-being.
APPENDIX B
Police in democracies need to be both free from political interference and accountable to the public. To balance these needs, Alberta’s Police Act requires that the City Council appoint an independent police commission for the police to report to, instead of reporting directly to Council. While the Council still approves the total police budget, only the Edmonton Police Commission can direct how the budget is spent. The Commission also supervises the police chief, sets police policies, and monitors the police conduct complaint process.
APPENDIX C
GOAL 1: BALANCE SUPPORT AND ENFORCEMENT
GOAL 2: PARTNER AND ADVOCATE
GOAL 3: CONNECT, SHARE AND EVOLVE
GOAL 4: INNOVATE AND ADVANCE AS ONE TEAM
GOAL 5: SUPPORT AND GROW DIVERSE TALENTS
A Message from
Dale R. McFeE, chief of Police
In looking back on the events of 2023, a remarkable highlight has been the Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) ability to adapt in a year filled with hurdles and significant accomplishments. This commitment was evident as we worked to advance public safety efforts, address crime trends, and engage with the public. Despite facing the heartbreaking loss of two of our officers in the line of duty, the EPS emerged stronger, demonstrating exceptional dedication and resilience.
The tragic deaths of Constables Brett Ryan and Travis Jordan will be carried with us forever. I am deeply grateful for our sworn and civilian members’ unwavering dedication and commitment, who continued to provide invaluable service to the community in the face of unthinkable circumstances. Their resilience, compassion, and steadfastness in carrying out their duties during such challenging times exemplify the true spirit of our organization. I would be remiss if I did not also acknowledge the resounding support of the community, who lifted us up when we needed it most.
Amidst these difficult times, the Service made strides in bolstering public safety efforts. As crime and violence trends grew more concerning, we responded by reallocating resources and reiterating that the city’s public spaces must be maintained for the safe and appropriate use of all. Our parks, transit systems, and sidewalks should be free of disorder and criminal activity, including open-air drug use and the often violent and unpredictable behaviour the drug trade brings with it. To address high-crime areas, we adjusted Divisional Beat boundaries and deployed focused units such as our Healthy Streets Operation Centre (HSOC) Community Safety Teams and Transit and Community Safety (TRACS) Teams. We have also pressed forward with our Guns and Gangs strategy, standing up an additional Gang Suppression Team and taking advantage of new tools in our Firearms Investigation Unit.
With the landscape of community safety changing, and many jurisdictions facing the same social issues, EPS and the Edmonton Police Foundation hosted the inaugural Safety of Our Cities conference. This gathering provided a platform for stakeholders to come together, share insights, and collaborate on strategies to address existing gaps in the social safety net and enhance public safety measures. It was inspiring to see so many in attendance, several whom came from across North America, willing to contribute to the conversation, help push the envelope, and advance critical initiatives on an international scale to combat crime and enhance public safety.
Last year, we also introduced a new goal, Connect, Share, and Evolve, into our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan to reflect our continued commitment to learning from our communities while delivering on our legal mandates under the Police Act, Criminal Code, and Provincial standards. With this in mind, we actively worked to help the public better understand EPS officers’ role through various public engagement efforts, including expanding our Know Your Rights campaign and education on Officer Contact Reports. We also hosted new public events like the Chief’s Pride Breakfast and Ramadan Iftar to foster cultural understanding and promote a sense of belonging within the community and throughout our organization. Additionally, we expanded online reporting to include hate incidents, providing those who do not feel comfortable calling police, or attending a police station, another avenue for reporting.
In 2024, we aim to build upon this progress. Our approach continues to be one of balancing empathy with accountability: where the justice system is needed, it is applied, but provide connection to supports through PACT, HELP, the Integrated Care Centre, and other community partnerships. We will continue to listen actively, ensuring that the voices of Edmontonians are heard and considered, helping to guide our strategic and operational decisions while maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment, but we will not shy away from difficult and important discussions, such as advocating for bail reform. We will recognize and celebrate our successes, learn from our challenges, and use them to propel us forward in the year ahead.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Treaty 6 Territory ᐊᒥᐢᑿᒌᐚᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ Métis Region 4.
We are located in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Beaver Hills) on Treaty 6 territory and Métis Region 4. Edmonton Police Service recognizes that the relationships between policing and Indigenous communities is complex and requires considerable work to address. On the path towards reconciliation, it is essential to acknowledge the truth of our placement on the land which the signing of the treaties are responsible for. Without this understanding and agreement of land sharing, Canada would not exist as it does today. In recognition of the commitment between the Crown and sovereign Indigenous communities, the Edmonton Police Service would like to acknowledge the people and the agreement of Treaty 6 signatories, home to centuries of Indigenous Peoples, including but not limited to the Cree, Dene, Anishinaabe, Blackfoot, Papaschase, Nakota Sioux, and the Métis Peoples. As we are all Canadians, we are all Treaty people.
Police Headquarters
9620 – 103A Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
T5H 0H7
© Edmonton Police Service 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Design by destroythebox
Police Headquarters
9620 – 103A Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
T5H 0H7
© Edmonton Police Service 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Design by destroythebox
