Early results suggest Calgary campaign to combating crime is working: officials

Police say the city's Safer Calgary operation—a joint initiative aimed at tackling crime and social disorder—has been a success so far.

The City of Calgary is celebrating the early success of its Safer Calgary operation.

Launched just over a month ago on Feb. 17, the operation is a joint effort between Calgary police, peace officers and various community partners.

Its aim is to address crime and social disorder in public spaces.

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On Thursday, police announced 230 charges have been laid, 1,464 arrest warrants fulfilled and 1,060 tickets issued, in addition to 1,151 referrals to social agencies.

Police say the results show the operation is working.

How it works

Safer Calgary functions by partnering Calgary Police Service community engagement response teams with bylaw officers and transit officers for a more integrated approach.

The teams are deployed to crime hot spots, particularly in the downtown core and along transit lines.

“The Safer Calgary initiative is just another way for us to grow and build on our collaboration efforts,” said Community Safety Insp. Susan Wall.

“We are committed to delivering a safer space for those that work, live and visit our vibrant city, and in particular our downtown spaces.”

Acting Deputy Chief of Transit Public Safety Michael Pratt says the collaboration approach is an effective one.

“By addressing both mental and physical health needs, this initiative takes a proactive, compassionate approach to supporting vulnerable populations while ensuring a safer transit environment for all,” he said.

Success stories

Officials shared multiple highlights of the operation on Thursday, including many arrests and the seizure of weapons and drugs.

Drugs seized include:

• 299 grams of fentanyl;
• 61 grams of methamphetamine; and
• Four grams of cocaine.

Officials say officers were also able to save the life of a person who was overdosing and help connect a young and pregnant drug user with recovery supports.

They also searched more than 159 encampments, removing 29 of them.