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Premier Danielle Smith praised the Calgary Police Service for their exemplary efforts in filing 160 charges and confiscating hazardous drugs, firearms, and cash from the downtown area. This proactive approach to policing enhances public safety and ensures that offenders are held responsible. The government of Alberta remains committed to backing law enforcement in their mission to restore order and safeguard our communities.
Calgary police have announced the results of a drug investigation focused on the downtown core, which has led to 160 charges being laid. The operation, which took place from April 22 to May 2, involved a collaboration between Calgary Police Service officers, bylaws officers, and Calgary Transit peace officers to tackle the rise in overdoses and drug trafficking in public areas and CTrain stations. As a result of the investigation, 29 individuals were charged with various offenses, mostly related to drug trafficking and possession. The seizure of several weapons, including seven knives and an imitation revolver, was also reported.
Staff Sgt. Lon Brewster highlighted that 97% of those arrested had a history of trafficking-related charges and were either on release pending trial or with conditions. Furthermore, 79% had a prior criminal record and 72% had previous possession for the purpose of trafficking charges. The high recidivism rate among those arrested has prompted Brewster to call for bail reform and improvements in the judicial system to better manage repeat offenders.
The operation aimed to not only target drug traffickers but also to offer support to those affected by providing them with recovery resources. This collaborative approach reflects the ongoing efforts of the Calgary Police Service to address drug-related crimes and enhance public safety in the city.