News Briefs
$3.5 million committed to fight organized crime
The Alberta government is committing an additional $3.5 million this year to strengthen the province’s fight against organized crime and gangs. The new funding establishes an Integrated Organized Crime and Gang Enforcement Unit consisting of four teams throughout the province, each with eight investigators and support staff. The unit will be directed by senior members of the RCMP and the Calgary and Edmonton police services. Police believe there are currently 24 organized crime groups in the province.
One year since small claims increase
November 1, 2003 marks the one-year anniversary of the increase in Alberta’s “small claims” limit, from $7,500 to $25,000. This change increases access to justice, as more people with civil claims are now able to represent themselves in provincial court. Filing fees of $100 or $200, based on the value of the claim, may be waived to $25 where financial need is demonstrated.
Jails to use Tasers to crack down on disturbances
Alberta correctional centre staff are now equipped with Taser devices as part of a new zero tolerance policy toward violence, dangerous or threatening behaviour in provincial jails. Tasers are limited-range weapons that deliver a mild electrical charge to briefly immobilize aggressive and violent offenders. Tougher rules also include zero tolerance towards gangs, assaultive or threatening behaviour and illegal drug use. Random drug testing, now allowed under the Corrections Amendment Act, will replace the current practice of scheduled tests.
CYOC marks 15 years
The Calgary Young Offender Centre celebrated its 15th anniversary with a reunion BBQ in June. About 150 current and former staff and family members attended the event at Calgary’s Bowness Park.
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Checking out the new intoxilyzer. |
New tool tells drunk drivers they’ve “blown it”
Police in Alberta are now equipped with 400 new intoxilyzers, thanks to funding from the Alberta Solicitor General. The intoxilyzers are now used by police as a roadside screening device. Results from the device, received seconds after a breath sample has been given, will help police to decide on further actions such as 24-hour roadside suspensions, or bringing the driver to a breathalyzer to determine criminal code charges.
John Howard seeks volunteers
The Edmonton John Howard Society is currently recruiting for a number of volunteer positions in three program areas. Cooks, youth worker assistants and recreation assistants are needed at the Howard
House Young Offender Group Home. Office support and court support workers are needed in the Victims Assistance Program. And finally, literacy tutors are needed in the Alternative Learning Program. For more information call Jeannette at 428-7590, ext. 241 or jjohnson@johnhoward.org.
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Justice Minister David Hancock hosted an appreciation ceremony where he presented Dispute Resolution Officer volunteers with a certificate of appreciation for their dedication to the program. Associate Chief Justice Allen Sulatycky (left of Minister Hancock) and Justice Colleen Kenny were also in attendance. |
