RCMP detachment almost at full power

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

The news is all good as far as staffing goes for the RCMP at its High Prairie and Faust detachments. Sgt. Brian J. Pattyson says the High Prairie detachment is only one member short while Faust is currently overstaffed. “We’re short the staff sergeant position in High Prairie,” says Pattyson, who will be in charge until the post is filled. The position has been advertised and closed. Now the interviewing process begins before a selection is made, then the successful candidate has 90 days to complete the transfer to High Prairie. The process could take anywhere from two to six months to complete and became open when former S/Sgt. Mike Pierson left for Stony Plain. At full strength, the High Prairie detachment has 18 members. “We’re at 17,” says Pattyson so we’re one short.” The good news is that one police cadet will graduate soon and be assigned to High Prairie. However, shortly afterwards another member leaves on a transfer. “So we’re not doing too bad,” says Pattyson. Statistically, the High Prairie detachment is one of the busiest in the province so the RCMP’s top brass tries to keep it as fully staffed as possible, says Pattyson. In Faust the detachment currently has two surplus members. “At full staff we have five members,” says Pattyson – a corporal and four constables. We have seven members but one is leaving.” Back in High Prairie, the extra positions to fight the drug trade there has been approved. Pattyson hopes the new officers will arrive by the end of the year once all the paperwork has been completed. The police dog and handler to be stationed in High Prairie is also something Pattyson hopes to see in the near future. The detachment has had the kennel for the dog on site for about two months. “We’ll hopefully see the dog this summer,” says Pattyson. All in all, the news is good. “This year will be a good year,” says Pattyson referring to all staffing issues.

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