The Piikani Nation has established a chapter of Alberta Citizens on Patrol. (Photo: Alberta Citizens on Patrol)

By David Opinko

Piikani Nation creates first Citizens on Patrol chapter on a First Nation

Jan 16, 2025 | 11:39 AM

A First Nation in southern Alberta recently took a historic step to keep its communities safe.

In partnership with the Alberta RCMP, the Piikani Nation established a Citizens on Patrol chapter, the first for a First Nation.

Citizens on Patrol is a volunteer-based initiative that sees trained civilians serve as the “eyes and ears” of their community. Members work in pairs and use their own vehicles to observe and report suspicious activities to local law enforcement.

The benefit of this system, says Piikani RCMP Detachment Staff Sgt. Vince Bacon, is that the volunteers possess a deep knowledge of their community, which allows them to identify unusual or criminal activities more effectively.

“This is a big deal for us and a major step forward in crime prevention,” says Bacon. “Citizens on Patrol has been wonderful in making this happen, even allowing us to adjust the ACOPA [Alberta Citizens on Patrol] logo to reflect First Nations representation. This milestone represents a step in the right direction for collaboration and communication between the Piikani Nation and our detachment.”

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ACOPA President Kimberly Hurst says when Sgt. Bacon first discussed creating the initiative, she knew it would be a challenge, “But when like-minded people work toward a common goal, they can achieve amazing things.”

The first patrol took place on Halloween night, 2024. Seven members are already trained and operational, and Hurst says they are looking to get more volunteers on board.

“We received a grant to cover brochures, jackets, and shirts, but funding is needed to sustain and grow the program,” says Hurst. “We’re hoping to secure support to cover fuel costs for patrols and a cell phone for the group to stay connected during operations. Data and fuel costs shouldn’t be barriers to keeping a community safe, especially when you have motivated people willing to step up.”

To learn more about Alberta Citizens on Patrol and inquire about volunteering, go to their website.

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