Ongoing initiative targeting crime and disorder downtown continues to yield results

Lethbridge Police stopped an assault in progress, after covert officers working along 5 Street South observed the attack of a business owner and immediately intervened, taking the subject – who continued to fight with police – into custody. The arrest was part of an enforcement project targeting crime and social disorder downtown.

The ongoing operation, involving a combination of uniform and covert officers actively targeting offenders engaged in criminal activity and other negative behaviours in the city centre, was initiated in March and the second project took place April 18.

Members of the Downtown Policing Unit, Crime Suppression Team, Property Crimes Unit and Community Peace Officers, executed 31 outstanding warrants, arrested a total of 26 people, laid 21 new charges, seized nearly 40 doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine, reversed two overdoses by administering Narcan, recovered two stolen bikes, one stolen vehicle and issued various tickets. Police also had the opportunity to engage with numerous citizens, stopping to answer questions, address concerns and simply make people aware of their presence.

The targeted enforcement operation will continue throughout 2024 and businesses and visitors in the downtown area can expect to see a heightened police presence on the days the teams are deployed as officers work to actively target high frequency offenders and areas with high volumes of crime. The operation was developed by police as part of the Service’s 2024 Annual Policing Plan, to help increase visibility and capacity in the downtown core.

Police remind the public to continue reporting all suspicious and criminal activity downtown – or anywhere in the city – by calling 403-328-4444. LPS uses CompStat, a data-driven model where analytics are used to identify high-crime areas, prolific offenders and the most effective deployment of police resources. Knowing what is occurring, where it is happening and how often, helps give police an accurate picture of crime and disorder in the community, and enables more effective deployment of resources and enforcement strategies.

Some crimes can also be reported online, including theft under $5,000, mischief, theft from vehicles and damage to vehicles. There is also a category for ‘information only’ reports where citizens can report nuisance and non-criminal matters. Visit www.lethbridgepolice.ca and click online reporting.