Province turns to high-tech for help in fighting rural crime

The provincial government is looking for technological solutions to rural crime problems.

As part of the Ministry of Justice’s recently announced Protection and Response Team, Innovation Saskatchewan will focus a new initiative on “the development of technologies that can be used to help residents address crime in rural areas,” said a media release.

The rural crime innovation challenge will call for technology companies and researchers to submit proposals for a 16-week residency program.

“Rural residents face special circumstances when it comes to crime,” said Steven Bonk, minister responsible for innovation. “It is our hope that this new program will attract students, researchers and technology companies to complete a bid and assist rural residents who have concerns about the safety of their property and well-being.”

Wes Jickling, CEO of Innovation Saskatchewan, said the challenge is meant to be a blank canvas for applications to offer their own ideas, but applications may include things like how to utilize drone technology, video surveillance or some sort of censor system for high value equipment that is prone to theft in rural areas.

Prior to the Oct. 13 deadline for expressions of interest, there will be information sessions in Regina, Saskatoon and online. Applications are available at innovationsask.ca.