Ask the CHIEF A

Dean LaGrange Chief of Police Camrose Police Ser vice

Question:

What are the common issues for the police during BVJ, and how did the 2023 BVJ rate?

Answer:

Big Valley Jamboree comes with significant planning, logistical and operational challenges. It essentially doubles the population of Camrose over one long weekend. The Camrose Police Service must still police the City of Camrose and respond to regular calls for service, yet provide a policing presence for the 5,200 campsites, beer gardens and the concert bowl as well. To do this, we rely on “Memo’s of Understanding” from some of our Provincial partners like the Calgary Police Service, RCMP and Sheriffs. Responding to calls of theft, assault, domestic arguments etc, are common calls for service in the City as well as BVJ. The 2023 Big Valley Jamboree was sold out, one of the busiest in recent memory. While it puts Camrose on the map and has great economic spin off, it also has its challenges from a policing standpoint.

Have a question for the Chief? Email them to The Camrose Booster at news@camrosebooster.com.