PRINCE ALBERT – A special inquiry into Prince Albert Police Service (PAPS) released 45 recommendations Tuesday for everything from governance reforms such as not allowing the mayor to sit on the police board to bolstering its Criminal Investigation Division (CID).
The inquiry was ordered by Saskatchewan Minister of Corrections and Policing, Christine Tell, in response to a series of incidents last year. These included three in-custody deaths and the tragic death of 13-month-old Tanner Brass, whose mother sought police assistance. The child's father is currently facing a charge of second-degree murder. The special inquiry was done by Rod Knecht & Associates Ltd. Knecht was Edmonton’s police chief from June 2011 to October 2018.
PAPS Chief of Police Patrick Nogier said they are committed to evaluating and responding to the recommendations in the independent review.
“Where applicable, these recommendations, totaling 45 in number and encompassing various aspects impacting our operations and finances, will be given careful consideration and implemented with due diligence," he said.
Nogier, a 30-year member of the Saskatoon Police Service and Superintendent of the Criminal Investigations Division, was appointed as interim chief of PAPS in May after PAPS Chief of Police Jonathan Bergen resigned following the release of the Public Complaints Commission report into Tanner Brass’ death saying that two police officers failed in their duties.
The 45 recommendations from the special inquiry ordered by the province will have a significant impact on PAPS’ operations and financial management, acknowledged Nogier.
“However, we are steadfast in our determination to rise to the challenge and implement change effectively and efficiently.”
Job descriptions for all positions, ranks, and members
The first recommendation emphasizes the need for PAPS to develop comprehensive job descriptions for both civilian and sworn personnel, covering all ranks from the patrol division to the Criminal Investigations Division (CID).
Urgent overhaul of Criminal Investigations Division (CID)
The report's urgency echoes the pressing need to add to PAPS' Criminal Investigations Division (CID) to tackle the city's escalating serious crimes. To achieve this, the special inquiry calls for the establishment of a dedicated four-person detective team, providing vital support to the patrol division. The potential impact is expected to be immediate, alleviating workload pressures, expediting crime resolution, and ultimately fostering a safer environment for the public.
Expanded online reporting for low priority calls
To reduce the call impact on the patrol division, PAPS must immdiately expand its online reporting system to include other low priority and non-urgent calls. This move seeks to provide citizens with a more accessible and convenient option for reporting incidents. Additionally, aggressive marketing of this alternative through local media, the City of Prince Albert's official website, and community outreach will help drive awareness and adoption.
Call prioritization and differentiation system
To reduce Patrol Division workload, enhance public safety, and improve organizational morale and reputation, PAPS should collaborate with the Canadian Public Safety Operations Organization to implement a call prioritization and differentiation system. This system will enable the police service to respond efficiently to all categories of calls, promoting a proactive approach to policing.
Internal training audit for developmental needs
Within the next six months, PAPS is recommended to conduct an internal training audit to assess the developmental requirements of both sworn and non-sworn personnel. This move aims to ensure that officers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively.
Addressing disciplinary and grievance issues
The report sheds light on various serious issues concerning discipline, grievances, and relationships with senior management within PAPS. To tackle these concerns, the recommendation calls for the appointment of a full-time association president who is well-versed in The Police Act, Collective Bargaining, and PAPS Policy, and is committed to building positive relationships.
Non-partisan police commission and service
To ensure the integrity of policing and avoid any perception of political influence, the report advises that the mayor should not be a member of the police commission board. In addition, it advocates for a non-partisan approach by the police commission and service throughout any election.
Transparent hiring process for Chief of Police
For the selection of the next chief of police, PAPS should adopt an independent hiring process, focusing on administrative, interpersonal, and leadership skills, along with demonstrated policing experience. External selection will ensure impartiality and thoroughness in the hiring process.
Establishing criminal analysis capacity
To transition from reactive policing to proactive, intelligence-driven policing, PAPS must acquire a criminal analysis capacity, including properly trained personnel and modern analytics software. This system will aid in identifying criminal activities, crime trends, and potential targets for investigation.
Annual assessment
Former Chief of Police Jonathan Bergen never received an Annual Assessment, which is required by Commission policy, said the inquiry. The PABPC should ensure that the Chief of Police receives an annual assessment that is reflective of PAPS Strategic Plan.
Working together
To implement reforms that will further strengthen law enforcement and community relations, Tell said that the provincial government is working with the Prince Albert Board of Police Commissioners, the interim Chief, and the Prince Albert Police Association to implement these recommendations and move forward so the people of Prince Albert can be confident in the service's ability to keep them and their community safe.
Janet Carriere, chair of the Prince Albert Board of Police Commissioners, expressed their unwavering commitment to working closely with Minister Tell in effecting the necessary changes. Notably, she said significant progress has already been made, with several meaningful steps having been taken to put the recommendations into practice.
"The board remains committed to constructive change in the governance and operations of the Prince Albert Police Service," said Carriere.
Likewise, Nogier said PAPS recognizes the importance of continuously improving their practices and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
“We appreciate the efforts put forth by the independent review panel in assessing our organization and providing valuable recommendations to enhance our effectiveness,” he said.
PAPS will remain transparent with open communication during this process, assured Nogier.
“We will actively engage with stakeholders, including the Prince Albert Police Association, our governance bodies, community organizations, and elected officials, to seek their input and address any concerns they may have regarding the implementation of the recommendations and their implementation.”
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