The Edmonton Police Service Community Action Team (CAT) was very successful in its efforts to reduce crime and disorder along Alberta Avenue last week.

Prohibited sawed-off high-power rifle seized by police

“We made some really good arrests and we connected directly with residents about crimes happening right in their own backyards,” says Acting Staff Sgt. Curtis Hoople with EPS Northwest Division.  “So far we’ve seen a reduction in the calls for service in the area from approximately 85 to 100 calls per night to 64 calls.  We’re hoping to keep that momentum going in the days ahead with a combination of ‘hot spot policing’ and community crime prevention.”

The four-night CAT deployment in the Alberta Avenue area from Jan. 21 to 24, 2015, resulted in: 57 arrests, 63 charges including 19 drug-related and six weapons-related, 204 warrant executions, 92 vehicle stops with one vehicle seizure, 120 traffic tickets, and three alcohol-related tickets.  Over 200 neighbourhood residents and families attended the community crime prevention event at the Alberta Avenue Hall as well.

The primary focus of the CAT was the reduction of property crimes such as theft of autos, which had increased significantly over the previous year, so it wasn’t a coincidence that police interrupted a theft of auto in progress and arrested the thieves.

On Jan. 22, 2015, EPS officers observed two adult males attempting to gain entry to a Ford F350 parked in a residential area at 116 Avenue and 95 Street.  The two men were reported to be using tools to break into and steal a truck.  Police units intervened before any further damage could be done.  The two men fled on foot, but were apprehended a short distance away without incident.  A 52-year-old male and a 44-year-old male were each charged withpossession of break and enter instruments, and the 52-year-old was also charged for breach of recognizance.

On Jan. 21, 2015, EPS officers conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle driving through the area.  A Hyundai Santa Fe was stopped in the area of 116 Street and Kingsway Avenue, and during the course of the investigation officers discovered a quantity of drugs (crystal meth, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, GHB, prescription drugs) in excess of $14,000, approximately $6,500 in cash, and throwing knives.  A 30-year-old male and a 21-year-old female were charged with a total of 15 drug-related and weapons offences, as well as numerous breaches of conditions.

A key component of CAT deployments is the ability to connect vulnerable persons with various social agencies for needed services.  On Jan. 21, 2015, EPS members intercepted a 15-year-old female who was allegedly involved in the sex trade and were able to get her into a stable, supportive environment.  Outreach workers from Metis Child and Family Services also offered counselling and exit strategies to an additional 11 sex trade workers who were living on the streets and in need of assistance.

The CAT deployment finished up with a “bang” on Jan. 24, 2015, when members recovered a loaded sawed-off high-power rifle and ammunition at a residence plagued with drug activity and disorder in the area of 95 Street and 112 Avenue.  Police continue to investigate numerous suspects associated to the address who are believed to be involved with crimes in the area, and charges are pending the completion of the investigation.

Supt. Denis Jubinville with EPS Northwest Division adds, “Overall the CAT deployment was very successful due in large part to the commitment of officers, partner agencies, local businesses, and Alberta Avenue residents.  The everyday efforts of citizens, in partnership with police, are essential to making Edmonton a safe and vibrant community.”

The monthly CAT deployments are part of the EPS Violence Reduction Strategy and have been successful in reducing crime and disorder in at-risk communities across the city.  For more information about the Community Action Team (CAT) and the Violence Reduction Strategy, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/CAT.