Penhold could get its own Citizens on Patrol group if the Innisfail RCMP get their way.
“The community's growing and getting bigger,” said Cpl. A.J. Mand.
As a result of that growth, Mand's hoping a group can be started in Penhold to help keep a watch out for suspicious activity, particularly at night.
“Being a citizen on patrol, you're a set of eyes and ears for the RCMP,” Mand said. He said a citizen on patrol is not supposed to get out of the vehicle at any time, instead contacting the police and keeping notes.
The group, if it gets started, would be working in conjunction with the Innisfail RCMP who would help with the initial organization.
“We'll help them get set up through ACOPA (Alberta Citizens on Patrol Association),” Mand said. The group would be assisted with acquiring tool kits for their volunteers.
Citizens on Patrol groups have no set hours when they have to patrol. Volunteers normally have to undergo a screening process and need to be willing to testify in court if they witness any criminal activity.
Cpl. Mand asked any potential volunteers to contact Const. Vanessa Brouillette at the Innisfail RCMP detachment, 403-227-3342.
