The officers formerly known as CAPS officers
By Angelle Meunier
Keeping Albertans safe is something provincial protection officers take very seriously, but few people know exactly who they are, or what they do, or that they used to be known as Court and Prisoner Services or CAPS.
Who are provincial protection officers?
Provincial protection officers are peace officers employed with the Security Services Branch, within the Public Security Division of Alberta Solicitor General. They are appointed as special constables under the Police Act, and perform security related roles across the province.
Why the new name?
In 2002 two units came together under Security Operations. The former name Court and Prisoner Services or CAPS no longer reflected the wide range of duties.
Where do they work in the province?
Two regions were established when the name was changed. The North Region consists of Edmonton, Wetaskiwin and Red Deer. The South Region consists of Calgary, Medicine Hat and Lethbridge. The officers work in the courthouses of these regions, or a number of other government buildings including the Legislature.
Why are there two different uniforms?
Officers shown in the photo are wearing the two styles of uniform. Officers on the left (uniform style) perform armed security functions within the courts, on escort duties and for functions requiring a security presence, i.e. G8.
Officers on the right (suit style) provide security to the courts, staff information centres in the courts, and help the judiciary. Legislature Security officers located at the Legislature Building, Legislature Annex, Government House and McDougall Centre also wear this style of uniform. These officers also provide personal security for the Lieutenant Governor, cabinet members, MLAs and staff as required.
What kind of training do they receive?
The training provided to each constable includes courses on ethics and professionalism, criminal law, general security processes, court room protocol, defensive driving, defensive tactics, arrest and control, high risk scenarios, gang lectures and physical training.
Once the constables have completed the first phase, training continues with one week of firearms training, four to six weeks of job shadowing and nine months under the supervision of an experienced provincial protection officer.
What qualifications do you need?
Qualifications for acceptance into Security Operations include two years post secondary education in police services, law enforcement, or social sciences, with at least one year of related experience in law enforcement, or two years related work experience.
How can I find out more?
More information is available on our website at www.solgen.gov.ab.ca or by phoning (780) 422-5200.
