Lethbridge Police Service updating beat system

An updated format for the city’s police beats is being implemented as part of a new culture, strategy and operations direction outlined by Chief Robert Davis last Wednesday at the monthly Police Commission meeting.

The previous system of six smaller beats has been replaced with four zones, including a significantly expanded downtown beat.

“Our traditional downtown, the issues there do not stay there,” said Davis.

The new format has already been in effect since Oct. 23 and beginning in January officers will be assigned on a more permanent basis to a particular beat.

Officers will remain assigned to their beats for a period of two to three years in a move toward more consistency and increased community engagement.

“The measure of success is going to the calls you’re assigned to here, but also getting to know that neighbourhood,” said Davis.

“If there’s no break-and-enters in your zone overnight that’s a success, not flying around the city putting Band-Aids on things.”

The new direction came out of an exercise with a criminal justice management consultant which identified a need for increased efficiencies.

A team of 18 officers per shift will be divided among the beats, short of the 21 that was recommended as part of the consultation process.

“We’re going to aim to staff (the beats) with the appropriate number of officers so that the workload is distributed evenly,” said Davis.

Staggered start times are a way the police service is looking at increasing efficiency as well, said Davis, pointing out the majority of calls come in between the hours of 2-11 p.m.

“If we can stagger our start times we will then have more than enough police officers to hit that 21, and more importantly give them that free time for proactive stuff, so they get to know who the shop owners are, get to know those back alleys,” said Davis.

“It’s a work in progress, but this is the direction we’re going and it’s exciting times.”

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