Alberta RCMP lay 12 charges while monitoring wildfire areas

While wildfires continue to rage through the province, Alberta RCMP is hard at work in affected areas trying to assist with public safety and crime reduction.

Since May 5, Mounties have been used to assist in door-knocking and other evacuation efforts.

In addition, after everyone else is gone — or supposed to be gone — Mounties have remained in those communities, patrolling and monitoring to ensure no crimes are being committed.

“What has been so incredibly humbling over the last couple of weeks,” said Supt. Blake Ward, Acting District Commander of the Western Alberta District, “is our interactions with the residents, who, despite going through a stressful and emotionally taxing situation, took the time to recognize that we are there to help; the thumbs up, or the thank you when you’re passing a checkpoint.”

As of May 17, Mounties have responded to 28 break-and-enters or trespassing incidents.

In addition, 12 “priority offenders” were taken into custody or removed from communities.

Mounties say 12 charges have been laid, with many investigations still underway.

“Specialized Crime Reduction Units from Central, Eastern, and Western Alberta district are tasked with the tracking, monitoring, and apprehension of prolific offenders and other individuals who might unfortunately see the wildfires as an opportunity to create more problems for people,” said Ward.

While the fires continue and thousands remain displaced, RCMP say they will continue to monitor checkpoints, patrol communities and track unfolding situations throughout fire-affected communities.