Success Stories

Top Cop Award for Constable Thomas Cleal

25 Sep 2025 22:00:50 UT

Constable Thomas Cleal with Downtown Beats has been named the 2024 Top Cop by the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton - Oil Capital.

“We’re pleased to honour Constable Cleal for being a champion for Special Olympics Alberta for nearly a decade – his incredible volunteer commitment to the community exemplifies what it means to be a Top Cop,” said Beverly Levis, President of the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton - Oil Capital.

Thomas was nominated by Stephanie Gulley, LETR Program Coordinator with Special Olympics Alberta, who wanted to recognize his true spirit of service.

“His unwavering commitment to individuals with intellectual disabilities shines through, and his impact on Special Olympics athletes is immeasurable,” she said. “His passion for fostering acceptance and inclusion has inspired so many to get involved and ensures that no one gets left behind.”

The Top Cop Award was presented to Constable Thomas Cleal by Kiwanis President Beverly Levis and Police Chief Warren Driechel on September 26, 2025.

Thomas first got involved with Special Olympics Alberta in 2016, when he assisted a colleague with the Calgary Polar Plunge. Since then, he has helped carry the flame for the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) and become one of its most dedicated champions.

Now serving as Vice Chair of the Edmonton Region LETR Operations Committee, he organizes major fundraisers such as the Polar Plunge, Cops, Pops and Pizza, and Free our Finest, raising awareness and vital donations so athletes with intellectual disabilities can train, compete, and thrive.

Alongside event planning, Thomas has dedicated his time as a coach and mentor – building meaningful relationships with athletes, inspiring them to push their limits, and sharing in their successes on and off the field.

Thomas’ tireless efforts to improve the lives of others have strengthened bonds between law enforcement and the community. His passion, leadership, and commitment exemplify what it means to be a Top Cop – serving not only in uniform, but as a role model and friend.

Special Olympics Alberta and the Edmonton Police Service came out to congratulate Constable Thomas Cleal for receiving the special honour.

“We are proud to have officers like Constable Thomas Cleal who lead with heart and show us what it means to serve with compassion and commitment,” said Police Chief Warren Driechel.

“His dedication to Special Olympics athletes, and to the community as a whole, is a reminder of the powerful impact police officers can have beyond the uniform.”

In celebration of Thomas’ community spirit, the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton - Oil Capital donated $1,000 to the charity of his choice – Special Olympics Alberta.

Thank you, Constable Thomas Cleal, for your outstanding volunteer contributions to the community!

Everyone runs for a reason

23 Sep 2025 17:31:57 UT

“They saw me as someone who was struggling and still chose to help.”

At 13, Kristin was homeless and addicted to drugs. Without the intervention of an Edmonton Police officer, she would have been one more life lost to the streets. Instead, the officer advocated on her behalf and made sure Kristin received the help she desperately needed.

On Sunday, Kristin ran in the EPS Half Marathon as an act of reconciliation.

“When you’re a troubled youth, you view the police as the enemy,” Kristin said. “That cycle has been broken because I decided to amend my relationship with Edmonton Police.”

At the finish line, Chief Warren Driechel draped a medal around Kristin’s neck.

“This is the third time she’s run this event,” the Chief said. “It’s heartwarming to recognize this accomplishment for her.”

For Kristin, the race was about more than the physical accomplishment of running 10 kilometres. It was an affirmation of the power trust and belief can have in a person’s life.

“It will always impact me that they never looked down on me,” Kristin said. “That they saw me as someone who was struggling and still chose to help.”

Kristin was one of 750 runners who took part in this year’s race.

The EPS Half Marathon is an opportunity for community engagement and to support the Edmonton Police Foundation in its efforts on behalf of the Edmonton Police Service.

The event was organized by Elisha Jackson of the Edmonton Police Foundation, with assistance from Superintendent Derek McIntyre, Inspector Jason Mitzel, Detective Brad Redl, and Syl Lemelin of Fitness and Active Lifestyle Unit. Sergeant Billy Countryman of Disaster Emergency Operations and Planning Section (DEOPS) also contributed to the planning and execution of the race.

Staff Sergeant David Crisp was the Major Event Commander and coordinated EPS support on the course.

Community sponsors included: Loblaw Companies Ltd., Running Room, Axon, Commissionaires, Nia Health, Pro Office Repairs and Services, Accident Support Services, Canadian Springs, Rapid Relief Team, and Supplement King.

Special thanks to all the EPS units and personnel who contributed their time and efforts to make the EPS Half Marathon a huge success!

EPS constable now Canada’s strongest man

29 Aug 2025 19:47:23 UT

Tristian Hoath easily outdistances the competition.

EPS Constable Tristian Hoath (middle) is Canada’s Strongest Man.

What a showdown!

Constable Tristain Hoath is Canada’s Strongest Man.

Hoath took first place in the 2025 Canada’s Strongest Man competition in Saint-Pamphile, Quebec.

He finished first with a score of 74.5 out of a possible 78 points - easily out-distancing his nearest competitors.

A total of 13 athletes from across the country took part in six events: log lift, frame carry, sandbag toss, car deadlift, truck pull, and Atlas Stones.

Hoath, who works in Southeast Branch, is an imposing figure standing 6 foot 3 and weighing more than 300 pounds. He uses his massive frame to push and pull enormous amounts of weight.

The 33-year-old has been recognized around the world for his physique and prowess.

He was inspired to compete after watching the World’s Strongest Man events on television with his father.

Congratulations, Tristain, Canada’s Strongest Man!

Local artist pays tribute to fallen member

20 Aug 2025 20:21:02 UT

“I do feel like we would have been good friends.”

Long before Josh Harnack ever picked up a paintbrush, he had dreams of wearing a police uniform.

“When I was a kid, I really wanted to be a cop. And so there's like a part of it that he was living my dream as a kid,” said Harnack.

Josh never would have predicted that decades later he would be tasked with painting a mural for a fallen police officer: Constable Brett Ryan who was killed in the line of duty in 2023 alongside his partner Constable Travis Jordan.

“This has definitely been the most unique. This has been the most meaningful one because I've never had to capture somebody that I've never met who's passed away, as like a memorial.”

The City of Spruce Grove recently opened a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose recreation facility that includes two ice rinks. The Constable Brett Ryan mural is located behind the players’ benches in the rink named for the fallen officer. It is a fitting home for the art piece considering Ryan was an avid hockey fan, player, and referee.

“Once I kind of started working on the overall concept and sitting with it for a couple days, it really dawned on me how important this mural was.”

Harnack spent weeks on the project researching Ryan’s life.

“I really got a deeper appreciation, a sense of who Brett Ryan was as a person.”

In between paint strokes, Harnack says he caught himself talking to the man in the pictures.

“I know I had my fair share of conversations with him working on the wall. Talking to him, asking him for help to paint his face properly and to not screw it up, make him look handsome, you know,” said Harnack.

The artist knows his work will be viewed by Ryan’s family members, friends as well as strangers for decades to come. And he hopes that people see themselves in the mural.

“’Hey, that's me. I'm, I'm that person.’ And I want to either strive to be that person, uh, and to emulate that. So, I feel like in a way I kind of want people to be inspired by it.”

EPS Traffic Services Branch members recieve the CACP Police Traffic Safety award

12 Aug 2025 16:34:49 UT

“The ultimate goal of this program is to increase driver safety on our highways.”

Congratulations to EPS Sergeant Dave Beattie and Constable Kyle Westergaard of Traffic Services Branch. They received the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety award at the CACP conference in Victoria, BC.

In Fall 2023, the Edmonton Police Service’s Commercial Vehicle Inspection Unit (CVIU) launched a nine-month pilot program called “Option 4,” aimed at improving safety among small commercial vehicle operators. The initiative targets fleets weighing between 4,500 and 11,793 kilograms. The program offers first-time offenders, typically drivers and companies outside the major transportation sector an educational alternative to fines.

Recognizing the public safety risks and lack of industry resources, CVIU developed a training curriculum endorsed by Alberta’s Carrier Services. Delivered through site visits or lectures, the training helps participants understand safe vehicle operation. When successfully completed, CVIU recommends withdrawal of eligible charges.

EPS partnered with the Alberta Motor Transport Association and the Alberta Construction Safety Association to support the program. According to Sgt. Beattie of CVIU, “Option 4 has equipped numerous drivers and companies with the tools to operate safely on Alberta roads.”

The initiative represents a proactive shift from enforcement to education, fostering safer roads and more informed operators across Alberta’s commercial vehicle sector.

Congratulations!

Body Worn Video Redaction Partnership wins CACP award

11 Aug 2025 21:27:45 UT

The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) is pleased to announce the winner of the CACP/Axon Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Award which recognizes excellence, dedication, and initiative to enhance community trust and create a corporate culture that is fair, supportive and inclusive. This award is presented to an individual/team who demonstrates a passion for achieving progress in this area.

This year, the award goes to Chief Innovation & Technology Officer Ron Anderson and Superintendent Derek McIntyre of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) for their leadership role in the implementation of the Body Worn Video Redaction Partnership with Technology North.

In June 2024, the EPS partnered with local Edmonton IT company Technology North (Tech North) to launch a research development project involving the redaction of body worn camera footage in low complexity incidents by Tech North's neurodivergent employees. The project, which employed four of Tech North's employees, all of whom are on the autism spectrum, was a success and solidified a service agreement to make Tech North's autism employment program a permanent part of the EPS' Digital Evidence and Records Management Unit.

EPS' Chief Innovation and Technology Officer Ron Anderson was instrumental in the development of this partnership and program. With the support of Derek McIntyre, Superintendent of the EPS Information and Analytics Division, this program has helped the service continue to expand its commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace and has positively impacted the local autism community.

Overall, the development project was a resounding success, with testing confirming that members of the autism employment program are completing redaction with the same speed and accuracy as the neurotypical members of the Digital Evidence and Record Management Team. As the phased deployment of body worn cameras to the remainder of the police service continues, the volume of footage requiring redaction will only increase and the Tech North team will be essential in supporting this need.

The EPS looks forward to welcoming additional members of the Tech North team in 2025. Currently, the four Tech North employees and their coach work alongside several other redaction specialists to remove any body worn camera footage that may infringe on the privacy of individuals not directly involved in a police interaction. Footage redacted by the Tech North team includes license plates on a nearby vehicle, a citizen walking past, or a computer, phone screen or paper document that contains sensitive or private information.

"We are deeply grateful to the Edmonton Police Service for their visionary partnership, which has not only advanced police transparency and accountability but also created meaningful employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum — a core mission of our organization," says Ling Huang, President and CEO of Technology North.

“This visionary initiative not only delivered outstanding operational results but also redefined what inclusion in policing can look like, showcasing how embracing diverse cognitive strengths can solve real challenges and create lasting community impact,” stated Elizabeth Nguyen, Co-Chair of the CACP’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

Mr. Stefan Schurman, Director of Sales at Axon Public Safety Canada, sponsor of this award, added that “At Axon, we believe in the power of joining forces to create safer, more inclusive communities. Mr. Anderson and Superintendent McIntyre exemplify the leadership, vision, and dedication that this award celebrates. We are proud to honour their work.”

Remembering Constable Dan Woodall a Decade Later

06 Jun 2025 21:21:06 UT

Small ceremony marks 10th anniversary of the death of Constable Dan Woodall.

Remembering Constable Dan Woodall a Decade Later

EPS members gathered for a small ceremony to mark the 10^th anniversary of the death of Constable Dan Woodall.

Held at his gravesite on June 4, 2025, the solemn memorial paid tribute to Constable Woodall’s life, service, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Led by Chaplain Roy Langer, the ceremony brought together representatives from the Edmonton Police Service, Edmonton Police Commission, the Edmonton Police Association, and the EPS Veterans’ Association to lay wreaths for the fallen officer.

Interim Chief Devin Laforce offered heartfelt reflections on how Constable Woodall’s sacrifice continues to shape our police service and the communities we serve.

In a moving gesture, two of Dan’s former colleagues, Detective Ray Wilson and Constable Daina Christoforou, placed a wreath on behalf of his family.

The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, lone piper Sergeant Dale McDonald playing Highland Cathedral, and a final salute from all the police officers.

Constable Dan Woodall was killed in the line of duty while attempting to arrest a hate crime suspect on June 8, 2015.

Because of the courage, commitment, and humanity Constable Woodall exemplified, police and community members have honoured the fallen hero through the years with memorial ceremonies, soccer matches, and by naming a school and park after him.

These acts of remembrance, stand as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy he leaves behind – reminding us of the values he lived, and the difference one life of service can make.

Put on a happy face

16 May 2025 14:50:01 UT

Smile Cookie campaign raises thousands for EPF and EPS youth programs.

The Edmonton Police Foundation (EPF) has 300,000 reasons to smile!

On Wednesday it was announced that the Tim Horton’s Smile Cookie campaign raised $393,234.97 for the EPF.

The funds from the campaign will directly support EPS and EPF programs that build bridges between police and youth, ensuring young people have positive influences that steer them away from crime.

“Our people most in need are the youth and the kids in the community so it will absolutely build that connection,” said Interim Chief Devin Laforce.

EPF Executive Director Lisa Jackson said, "Being chosen as the Smile Cookie Campaign recipient was monumental. This is the largest donation in EPF history since the 2001 Spotlight on Safety campaign for Air 1.”

The campaign ran from April 28 – May 1, 2025. Edmonton Tim Horton’s owners chose the Edmonton Police Foundation as this year’s Smile Cookie campaign recipient for the capital region.

“We want to serve our community and we want to serve our youth, and we want them to be empowered,” said franchisee Anna Marshall. “And the Edmonton Police Foundation does that really well.”

The success of the Smile Cookie campaign was thanks in large part to the efforts of EPS employees, Jackson said: “We couldn’t have done it without them. They went all out, decorating and selling cookies at Tim Horton’s across the city.”

Even Interim Chiefs Laforce and Driechel got in on the action, holding a friendly competition to see who could sell the most Smile Cookies.

“I gained a new appreciation for how busy a drive-through window can be,” said Interim Chief Driechel. “Like, I thought, after 28 years of policing, I can stand a drive-through window for two hours. It’s pretty crazy.”

Thank you to the Edmonton Police Foundation and all the sworn and civilian volunteers who contributed to the success of the Smile Cookie campaign.

Soccer homecoming for fallen police hero

16 May 2025 14:00:08 UT

Constable Dan Woodall’s legacy honoured with tribute soccer match between EPS and Greater Manchester Police.

Woodall Cup travels to Greater Manchester

Ten years after the loss of Constable Dan Woodall, members of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) honoured his legacy with a special tribute soccer match against the Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

“This homecoming match meant a lot to us, it was a celebration of Dan’s legacy, bridging two police services and the communities that he gave his heart to,” said Constable Bruce McGregor, who plays on the EPS Blues Soccer Team and worked alongside Constable Woodall in Southwest Branch Patrol.

Constable Woodall was tragically killed in the line of duty on June 8, 2015, while attempting to arrest a hate crime suspect in Edmonton. His death was not only deeply felt here, but across the ocean in Greater Manchester, England – where he grew up, and served with the GMP, prior to moving his family to Edmonton and joining the EPS.

Dan loved soccer, so those who knew him felt it would be a fitting tribute to play a friendly “football’ match in his memory, and soon the Woodall Cup became an annual tradition celebrating the values of teamwork, community, and unity that he held dear.

To mark the 10th anniversary of Dan’s passing, the EPS Blues Soccer Team travelled to Greater Manchester to meet his former police colleagues and face off against the GMP Football Club for the Woodall Cup on May 9, 2025. This was the second match between the two teams, who originally played in Edmonton the year after Dan’s death.

GMP Detective Sergeant Dominic Beaver, who travelled to Edmonton for the Woodall Cup in 2016, welcomed the fellow police officers for the rematch.

“We’ve been really looking forward to seeing them again and giving them a good glimpse into how things work over here,” Detective Sergeant Beaver said. “Dan knew an old school friend of mine who lives in Edmonton and that’s how I became involved. These tragedies are always felt across the police family, especially when there are links to home.”

Dan’s family moved back to Greater Manchester after his death, and his youngest son Callen had the opportunity to join the Edmonton team on the field as they played in his dad’s honour. After the game, Callen presented the trophy to the EPS Blues who won 4 – 1, and Claire Woodall, widow of the fallen officer, also had the opportunity to thank the players on behalf of her family.

“It means so very much to our family that Dan's life is remembered,” said Claire. “The Woodall Cup has linked Dan’s English roots to his life in Canada through football, and it was such a fantastic surprise to find out the game would be played in Manchester this year.”

“This is such an honour for our two boys to know the impact their father had, and we’ll always have a special place in our hearts, and forever be linked to, the wonderful citizens of Edmonton.”

While in Greater Manchester, the EPS Blues had the opportunity to play a series of memorial games – including a match with son Callen’s team, the Trafford Youth Warriors, a friendly with the GMP Veterans, and an all-star charity match against former Premier League players.

The policing brotherhood between EPS and GMP concluded their time together with a bittersweet visit to the GMP Training Facility, where a memorial garden honours officers who died in the line of duty – including a maple tree planted in memory of Constable Woodall.

Constable Woodall’s legacy will also be honoured privately by EPS in Edmonton nearer the anniversary of his death in June.

“We’re proud to play for Dan – our friend, teammate, and hero – who lived with courage, compassion, and a love for both community and this glorious game,” added Constable McGregor.

“Dan leaves behind a legacy of service, sportsmanship, and sacrifice that continues to live on in our hearts and on the field. Fallen but never forgotten, we continue to play on in his memory.”

Underscoring their dedication to honouring Constable Woodall’s legacy, players on the EPS Blues Soccer Team covered their own travel expenses for the trip to Greater Manchester. The annual Woodall Cup has been made possible by the generous support of the Edmonton Police Association, EPS members clubs, and other sponsors.

Honouring the mothers who serve and inspire

09 May 2025 21:02:10 UT

Retired Detective Sheila Dow and daughter Constable Melaina Korol in 2001

This Mother's Day, we are celebrating the incredible bond between mothers and daughters at the Edmonton Police Service (EPS).

It is not unusual for children to walk in their parent’s footsteps, but these three mother-daughter policing duos are a reminder of the strength, love, and inspiration that mothers bring into our lives.

“Growing up, I always looked up to my mom as a role model in everything I did, I wanted to be just like her, so she definitely helped guide and influence the person I am and what I do,” said Constable Melaina Korol.

Melaina’s mom, Detective Sheila Dow, retired after 30 years with EPS, having worked in various units and finishing her career in the Domestic Offender Crimes Section.

“She’s such a great mom, but as a police officer I got to see the side of my mom that’s courageous and brave, has the biggest heart, and always wants to help people. It’s super inspiring and made me want to do the job as well.”

Retired Superintendent Shawna Grimes and daughter Constable Faith Goodkey

A similar sentiment was shared by Constable Faith Goodkey, daughter of Retired Superintendent Shawna Grimes, whose career spanned over 30 years and included roles in the Sexual Assault, Child Protection, and Homicide Sections.

“It’s so comforting to be able to call her and get her perspective as a mother and a police officer. When I took Police and Investigative Studies, one of our assignments was related to one of her sexual assault files that set a legal precedent at the Supreme Court, so it’s cool to be able to get her advice on similar files because she has the experience.”

Having a police mom comes with advantages – but also its own challenges, which can be overcome with understanding and support.

“It’s an honour to follow in her footsteps, but it’s intimidating too, she’s accomplished so much in her 30-year career,” said Constable Ella Morgan speaking about her mom, Superintendent Kellie Morgan, whom she occasionally runs into at EPS Northwest Campus.

“She’s always let me have my own journey, but at the same time she’s always been there to provide advice and support when I’ve asked for it. No matter what, she can relate to what I’m talking about and what I’m experiencing.”

Superintendent Kellie Morgan and daughter Constable Ella Morgan

With more than just mother’s intuition, these police moms understood their daughter’s journey all too well – having been trailblazers themselves, at a time when being both a policewoman and a mother was no easy feat.

“It definitely had its challenges with my husband and I on shiftwork, but you can’t forget who helped you get here, and the strong connections you have with your family and new police family,” said Superintendent Kellie Morgan.

“There are sacrifices, but you can have a successful career and raise your kids too. These experiences absolutely helped me become a better mother and leader, and members know they can come to me for support and to celebrate their successes.”

While policing has evolved over the years and there is more support for members, parents can still feel vulnerable – especially when their child has chosen the same profession, said Retired Superintendent Shawna Grimes.

“Faith and I had some pretty realistic discussions about it, there’s some danger and it causes stress, and being a mom, I want to tell her what to do all the time,” she laughed.

“But she’s got her squad and all the support at work that I had, so I know everything will be alright. Now, I get to sit back and listen to her stories, and it reminds me of how much fun I had and how much I enjoyed it.”

Retired Detective Sheila Dow and daughter Constable Melaina Korol

These stories are a tribute to the strength and love of moms – women who believe in their children, encourage them to move forward, and take pride in every step they take.

“I brought my daughter Melaina to the International Association of Women Police conference when she was four years old, and they asked if she would march at the front of the parade in a little dress uniform they had,” recalled Retired Detective Sheila Dow.

“She was such a shy little girl, and the other women wondered if she would be okay, but she surprised us all by marching with them. She’s come such a long way since then, now stepping confidently into her own career, which makes me so proud.”

From our EPS family to yours, have a very happy Mother’s Day!