Knecht supports victims’ families

I am writing this letter on behalf of the many families who have been touched by murder

Chief Rod Knecht came to our city to clean up a horrific mess, and he did. He was tough, but he had to be. He arrived after Edmonton recorded 48 murders, determined to clean up our streets.

At our invitation, Chief Knecht came to one of our monthly support meetings, sitting with 40 of us and listened to our sad journeys after we had lost a loved one to murder.

His homicide detectives began coming too, and often referred new families to us. They support the members and provide valuable information as they prepare for, or have had, very difficult trials.

One of the many things Chief Knecht accomplished was placing ethnic officers in their own communities where they would inform people about the laws in our country and our justice system. Many came from countries where they don’t respect the police.

EPS and RCMP detectives continue to attend our monthly meetings, and their presence is invaluable. They comfort our people, and often explain that going into a trial does not always end in a positive note for the families.

This city will miss Chief Knecht. He has been a phenomenal chief.

Jane Orydzuk, Victims of Homicide Support Society, Edmonton