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Viking RCMP Detachment Commander Shares Successes and Challenges
Viking RCMP Detachment Commander Shares Successes and Challenges During Town Hall Meeting
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
Viking RCMP Detachment Commander Sgt. Raymond Stack held his first town hall meeting on Feb. 26 at the CARENA.
Around 40 people gathered in the lobby to hear his presentation. Sgt. Stack told attendees that it’s important to share successes and challenges. On that note, he pointed out that property crime has decreased 27 percent, other Criminal Code offences had decreased 48 percent, there had been an enhancement in visibility, awareness and education, enhanced road safety and implementation of crime reduction strategies.
While staffing has been a challenge, Sgt. Stack said there will an increase of two to four Constables at the detachment as of next week. As well, one of the members will be assigned to traffic duty to enhance road safety. Other challenges he cited included: Criminal Justice System, preventative reporting, communication, increase in persons crime and Victim Services.
In terms of the detachment’s focus, Sgt. Stack said members will continue to build relationships in the community, be more involved with the youth of the detachment area as well as utilizing staff to excel further on crime prevention strategies.
The RCMP are partners with Citizens on Patrol, Crimestoppers and Rural Crime Watch. “What I would like to see with Crime Watch it’s basically taking care of the community. I know the mayor has suggested this, and I think it’s important…If there is an opportunity to create a Rural Crime Watch I would entertain that and have people work with me, but we need interest.” Mayor James Buttner said he would like to see that happen as that was part of his platform when he ran for council.
Sgt. Stack said he is always open to ideas and encouraged local residents to reach out to him. The Viking RCMP detachment area covers the Town of Viking as well as a portion of Beaver County, including Bruce and Kinsella.
