Success Stories https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories.aspx Below is a list of stories and articles about the Edmonton Police Service and its members. en 25 Aug 2025 15:52:09 UT Commitment to Professionalism - Reduced Crime &amp; Victimization - Investigative Excellence - Increased Efficiency &amp; Effectiveness<br /> Copyright &copy; 2025, Edmonton Police Service. All rights reserved. Local artist pays tribute to fallen member https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/MemorialWall “I do feel like we would have been good friends.” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vw1-4lCdQ7M?si=9wVD5Sp0U5_p7oXy" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe> <p>Long before Josh Harnack ever picked up a paintbrush, he had dreams of wearing a police uniform. </p> <p>&ldquo;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,&rdquo; said Harnack.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>&ldquo;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.&rdquo;</p> <p>The City of Spruce Grove recently opened a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose recreation facility that includes two ice rinks.<span>&nbsp; </span>The Constable Brett Ryan mural is located behind the players&rsquo; 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. </p> <p>&ldquo;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.&rdquo;</p> <p>Harnack spent weeks on the project researching Ryan&rsquo;s life.</p> <p>&ldquo;I really got a deeper appreciation, a sense of who Brett Ryan was as a person.&rdquo;</p> <p>In between paint strokes, Harnack says he caught himself talking to the man in the pictures.</p> <p>&ldquo;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,&rdquo; said Harnack. </p> <p>The artist knows his work will be viewed by Ryan&rsquo;s family members, friends as well as strangers for decades to come. And he hopes that people see themselves in the mural. </p> <p>&ldquo;&rsquo;Hey, that's me. I'm, I'm that person.&rsquo; 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.&rdquo;</p> 20 Aug 2025 20:21:02 UT EPS Traffic Services Branch members recieve the CACP Police Traffic Safety award https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/CACPtrafficaward “The ultimate goal of this program is to increase driver safety on our highways.” <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="-/media/D61B3268BEDC46EA80A61E1777B902C7.ashx"><img alt="" style="height:231px; width:407px;" src="-/media/D61B3268BEDC46EA80A61E1777B902C7.ashx?h=231&amp;w=407" /></a></p> <p>&ldquo;The ultimate goal of this program is to increase driver safety on our highways.&rdquo;</p> <p>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.</p> <p>In Fall 2023, the Edmonton Police Service&rsquo;s Commercial Vehicle Inspection Unit (CVIU) launched a nine-month pilot program called &ldquo;Option 4,&rdquo; 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.</p> <p>Recognizing the public safety risks and lack of industry resources, CVIU developed a training curriculum endorsed by Alberta&rsquo;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. </p> <p>EPS partnered with the Alberta Motor Transport Association and the Alberta Construction Safety Association to support the program. According to Sgt. Beattie of CVIU, &ldquo;Option 4 has equipped numerous drivers and companies with the tools to operate safely on Alberta roads.&rdquo;</p> <p>The initiative represents a proactive shift from enforcement to education, fostering safer roads and more informed operators across Alberta&rsquo;s commercial vehicle sector.</p> <p>Congratulations!</p> 12 Aug 2025 16:34:49 UT Body Worn Video Redaction Partnership wins CACP award https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/CACP2025 <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="-/media/69D4EAF5EBB246C5B77322D281C70502.ashx"><img alt="" style="height: 338px; width: 450px;" src="-/media/69D4EAF5EBB246C5B77322D281C70502.ashx?h=338&amp;w=450" /></a></p> <p>The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) is pleased to announce the winner of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cacp.ca/cacp-equity-diversity-inclusion-leadership-award.html"><strong>CACP/Axon Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Award&nbsp;</strong></a>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.</p> <p>This year, the award goes to Chief Innovation &amp; 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.&nbsp;</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>"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 &mdash; a core mission of our organization," says Ling Huang, President and CEO of Technology North.</p> <p>&ldquo;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,&rdquo; stated Elizabeth Nguyen, Co-Chair of the CACP&rsquo;s Equity, Diversity &amp; Inclusion Committee.</p> <p>Mr. Stefan Schurman, Director of Sales at Axon Public Safety Canada, sponsor of this award, added that &ldquo;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.&nbsp; We are proud to honour their work.&rdquo;</p> 11 Aug 2025 21:27:45 UT Remembering Constable Dan Woodall a Decade Later https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/Woodall Small ceremony marks 10th anniversary of the death of Constable Dan Woodall. <p><strong><span>Remembering Constable Dan Woodall a Decade Later</span></strong></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <iframe src="https://edmontonpolice.sharepoint.com/teams/EPSMediaLibrary/_layouts/15/embed.aspx?UniqueId=24c6f3b3-144f-492b-ab66-889446e7c5e8&amp;embed=%7b%22ust%22%3atrue%2c%22hv%22%3a%22CopyEmbedCode%22%7d&amp;referrer=StreamWebApp&amp;referrerScenario=EmbedDialog.Create&amp;xsdata=MDV8MDJ8YW5nZWxhLndpbGRlQGVkbW9udG9ucG9saWNlLmNhfDZkNmVlMzIyZmJjNDQ2OGFmZWY3MDhkZGE0NmEwMDcwfDRhNjNkM2I0NTc5ZDRkM2ZhYjFmYjYzNTcwNGJhOWJjfDB8MHw2Mzg4NDc0OTczNzA5NDgzNDd8VW5rbm93bnxUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpGYlhCMGVVMWhjR2tpT25SeWRXVXNJbFlpT2lJd0xqQXVNREF3TUNJc0lsQWlPaUpYYVc0ek1pSXNJa0ZPSWpvaVRXRnBiQ0lzSWxkVUlqb3lmUT09fDB8fHw%3d&amp;sdata=N0tNTmplSHlYdUphT1FaekR2dEFWVDBVUnhZenoxbUNMdjdWSWpyVWN2ND0%3d" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" title="Woodall Cemetery 90 sec.mp4"></iframe> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>EPS members gathered for a small ceremony to mark the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the death of Constable Dan Woodall.</span></p> <p><span>Held at his gravesite on June 4, 2025, the solemn memorial paid tribute to Constable Woodall&rsquo;s life, service, and the legacy he leaves behind.</span></p> <p><span>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&rsquo; Association to lay wreaths for the fallen officer.</span></p> <p><span>Interim Chief Devin Laforce offered heartfelt reflections on how Constable Woodall&rsquo;s sacrifice continues to shape our police service and the communities we serve.</span></p> <p><span>In a moving gesture, two of Dan&rsquo;s former colleagues, Detective Ray Wilson and Constable Daina Christoforou, placed a wreath on behalf of his family.</span></p> <p><span>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</span><span>.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Constable Dan Woodall was killed in the line of duty while attempting to arrest a hate crime suspect on June 8, 2015.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>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.</span></p> <p><span>These acts of remembrance, stand as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy he leaves behind &ndash; reminding us of the values he lived, and the difference one life of service can make.</span></p> 06 Jun 2025 21:21:06 UT Put on a happy face https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/smilecookies Smile Cookie campaign raises thousands for EPF and EPS youth programs. <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="-/media/786B3AA0425C4E85B46EBC41DABDDC10.ashx"><img alt="" style="width:300px; height:225px;" src="-/media/786B3AA0425C4E85B46EBC41DABDDC10.ashx?h=225&amp;w=300" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Edmonton Police Foundation (EPF) has 300,000 reasons to smile!</p> <p>On Wednesday it was announced that the Tim Horton&rsquo;s Smile Cookie campaign raised <strong>$393,234.97</strong> for the EPF.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>&ldquo;Our people most in need are the youth and the kids in the community so it will absolutely build that connection,&rdquo; said Interim Chief Devin Laforce.</p> <p>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.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p> <p>The campaign ran from April 28 &ndash; May 1, 2025. Edmonton Tim Horton&rsquo;s owners chose the Edmonton Police Foundation as this year&rsquo;s Smile Cookie campaign recipient for the capital region.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="-/media/AB917B38A14D44FCA413855E8434734C.ashx"><img alt="" src="-/media/AB917B38A14D44FCA413855E8434734C.ashx?h=225&amp;w=300" style="height: 225px; width: 300px; text-align: center;" /></a></p> <p>&ldquo;We want to serve our community and we want to serve our youth, and we want them to be empowered,&rdquo; said franchisee Anna Marshall.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;And the Edmonton Police Foundation does that really well.&rdquo;</p> <p>The success of the Smile Cookie campaign was thanks in large part to the efforts of EPS employees, Jackson said: &ldquo;We couldn&rsquo;t have done it without them. They went all out, decorating and selling cookies at Tim Horton&rsquo;s across the city.&rdquo;</p> <p>Even Interim Chiefs Laforce and Driechel got in on the action, holding a friendly competition to see who could sell the most Smile Cookies.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="-/media/1B3968030E3745EFB13CF2A951513988.ashx"><img alt="" src="-/media/1B3968030E3745EFB13CF2A951513988.ashx?h=225&amp;w=300" style="height: 225px; width: 300px; text-align: center;" /></a></p> <p>&ldquo;I gained a new appreciation for how busy a drive-through window can be,&rdquo; said Interim Chief Driechel. &ldquo;Like, I thought, after 28 years of policing, I can stand a drive-through window for two hours. It&rsquo;s pretty crazy.&rdquo;</p> <p><em>Thank you to the Edmonton Police Foundation and all the sworn and civilian volunteers who contributed to the success of the Smile Cookie campaign.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<img alt="" src="-/media/213F2D55B34C4FDF881F596D73B4545C.ashx?h=225&amp;w=300" style="width: 300px; height: 225px;" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> 16 May 2025 14:50:01 UT Soccer homecoming for fallen police hero https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/soccer2025 Constable Dan Woodall’s legacy honoured with tribute soccer match between EPS and Greater Manchester Police. <iframe width="100%" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2bp41ZzQ4aE" title="Woodall Cup 10th anniversary" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span>Woodall Cup travels to Greater Manchester</span></strong></p> <p></p> <p><span>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). </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>“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.&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>Constable Woodall was tragically killed in the line of duty on June 8, 2015, while attempting to arrest a hate crime suspect in Edmonton.&nbsp; 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.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span>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.&nbsp; </span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/681045E414574435874CF0A5FFAD1E34.ashx"><img alt="" style="height: 295px; width: 400px;" src="-/media/681045E414574435874CF0A5FFAD1E34.ashx?h=295&amp;w=400"></a></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>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.&nbsp; This was the second match between the two teams, who originally played in Edmonton the year after Dan’s death. </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>GMP Detective Sergeant Dominic Beaver, who travelled to Edmonton for the Woodall Cup in 2016, welcomed the fellow police officers for the rematch.&nbsp; </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>&nbsp;“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.&nbsp; “Dan knew an old school friend of mine who lives in Edmonton and that’s how I became involved.&nbsp; These tragedies are always felt across the police family, especially when there are links to home.”</span></p> <p></p> <p><span>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.&nbsp; 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.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/28D8FE253CAF498297ADC154900CA7C7.ashx"><img alt="" style="width: 400px; height: 534px;" src="-/media/28D8FE253CAF498297ADC154900CA7C7.ashx?h=534&amp;w=400"></a></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>“It means so very much to our family that Dan's life is remembered,” said Claire.&nbsp; “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.”&nbsp; </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>“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.”</span></p> <p></p> <p><span>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.&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>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.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/AB38522C74504CD5860EE480AECEFA64.ashx"><img alt="" style="width: 400px; height: 534px;" src="-/media/AB38522C74504CD5860EE480AECEFA64.ashx?h=534&amp;w=400"></a></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>Constable Woodall’s legacy will also be honoured privately by EPS in Edmonton nearer the anniversary of his death in June.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span>“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.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span>“Dan leaves behind a legacy of service, sportsmanship, and sacrifice that continues to live on in our hearts and on the field.&nbsp; Fallen but never forgotten, we continue to play on in his memory.” </span></p> <p></p> <p><span>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.&nbsp; The annual Woodall Cup has been made possible by the generous support of the Edmonton Police Association, EPS members clubs, and other sponsors.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span>"<img alt="" style="width: 400px; height: 217px;" src="-/media/F34BD0F275F046FA9F12077488D0A4C0.ashx?h=217&amp;w=400"></span></p> 16 May 2025 14:00:08 UT Honouring the mothers who serve and inspire https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/MothersDay2025 <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/E24613C81FA24736AB8EE42D05D0320A.ashx"><img alt="" style="height: 301px; width: 250px;" src="-/media/E24613C81FA24736AB8EE42D05D0320A.ashx?h=301&amp;w=250" /></a></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><em>Retired Detective Sheila Dow and daughter Constable Melaina Korol in 2001</em></span></p> <p><span>This Mother's Day, we are celebrating the incredible bond between mothers and daughters at the Edmonton Police Service (EPS).</span></p> <p><span>It is not unusual for children to walk in their parent&rsquo;s footsteps, but these three mother-daughter policing duos are a reminder of the strength, love, and inspiration that mothers bring into our lives. </span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;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,&rdquo; said Constable Melaina Korol.</span></p> <p><span>Melaina&rsquo;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.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;She&rsquo;s such a great mom, but as a police officer I got to see the side of my mom that&rsquo;s courageous and brave, has the biggest heart, and always wants to help people.&nbsp; It&rsquo;s super inspiring and made me want to do the job as well.&rdquo;&nbsp; </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/992CA23B9A3C4A2CA223F45C6F2A1C0A.ashx"><img alt="" style="height: 334px; width: 250px;" src="-/media/992CA23B9A3C4A2CA223F45C6F2A1C0A.ashx?h=334&amp;w=250" /></a></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><em>Retired Superintendent Shawna Grimes and daughter Constable Faith Goodkey</em></span></p> <p><span>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.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;It&rsquo;s so comforting to be able to call her and get her perspective as a mother and a police officer.&nbsp; 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&rsquo;s cool to be able to get her advice on similar files because she has the experience.&rdquo; </span></p> <p><span>Having a police mom comes with advantages &ndash; but also its own challenges, which can be overcome with understanding and support. </span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;It&rsquo;s an honour to follow in her footsteps, but it&rsquo;s intimidating too, she&rsquo;s accomplished so much in her 30-year career,&rdquo; said Constable Ella Morgan speaking about her mom, Superintendent Kellie Morgan, whom she occasionally runs into at EPS Northwest Campus.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;She&rsquo;s always let me have my own journey, but at the same time she&rsquo;s always been there to provide advice and support when I&rsquo;ve asked for it.&nbsp; No matter what, she can relate to what I&rsquo;m talking about and what I&rsquo;m experiencing.&rdquo;</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="-/media/C9FCE0975613445F83AA2D52482DCB1E.ashx"><img alt="" style="height: 334px; width: 250px;" src="-/media/C9FCE0975613445F83AA2D52482DCB1E.ashx?h=334&amp;w=250" /></a></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><em>Superintendent Kellie Morgan and daughter Constable Ella Morgan</em></span></p> <p><span>With more than just mother&rsquo;s intuition, these police moms understood their daughter&rsquo;s journey all too well &ndash; having been trailblazers themselves, at a time when being both a policewoman and a mother was no easy feat.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;It definitely had its challenges with my husband and I on shiftwork, but you can&rsquo;t forget who helped you get here, and the strong connections you have with your family and new police family,&rdquo; said Superintendent Kellie Morgan.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;There are sacrifices, but you can have a successful career and raise your kids too.&nbsp; 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.&rdquo; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>While policing has evolved over the years and there is more support for members, parents can still feel vulnerable &ndash; especially when their child has chosen the same profession, said Retired Superintendent Shawna Grimes.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;Faith and I had some pretty realistic discussions about it, there&rsquo;s some danger and it causes stress, and being a mom, I want to tell her what to do all the time,&rdquo; she laughed.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;But she&rsquo;s got her squad and all the support at work that I had, so I know everything will be alright.&nbsp; 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.&rdquo;</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><img alt="" style="height: 375px; width: 250px;" src="-/media/C637E976B0E04035BE726869A91D6759.ashx?h=375&amp;w=250" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> <em>Retired Detective Sheila Dow and daughter Constable Melaina Korol</em></span></p> <p><span>These stories are a tribute to the strength and love of moms &ndash; women who believe in their children, encourage them to move forward, and take pride in every step they take.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;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,&rdquo; recalled Retired Detective Sheila Dow.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;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.&nbsp; She&rsquo;s come such a long way since then, now stepping confidently into her own career, which makes me so proud.&rdquo; </span></p> <p><strong><span>From our EPS family to yours, have a very happy Mother&rsquo;s Day!</span></strong></p> 09 May 2025 21:02:10 UT The Edmonton Police Foundation is the honoured recipient of the 2025 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/SmileCookie <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FNPn1rnQbT4?si=oPlmM0YUdnlaxDR9" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe> <p>The Edmonton Police Foundation has been chosen as the honoured recipient of the 2025 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign. This partnership offers an incredible opportunity to support vital youth programs&mdash;ensuring that 100% of the sales from Smile Cookies sold in Edmonton directly benefit the well-being and development of young people in our community.</p> <p>Your participation is crucial; the more cookies sold, the greater an impact we can achieve. We aim to harness this funding to profoundly impact Youth Diversion and Intervention Programs, key to preventing young individuals from falling into cycles of crime and the justice system.</p> <p>When you purchase a Smile Cookie, you will be supporting the following initiatives:</p> <p><strong>Missing Youth: Promoting trust through dedicated support</strong></p> <p>A portion of the funds raised will focus on enhancing our resources for officers who engage directly with missing youth once they are found. Trust and rapport are foundational to helping these individuals feel secure and supported by our police officers. With no current funding for rapport-building efforts, this campaign&rsquo;s funds will be instrumental in offering meals, clothing, hygiene items, and meaningful activities. By building trust, we aim to ensure youth are not frightened or alienated from police. Instead, they will feel comfortable reaching out to officers when in need, reducing incidents of runaway situations and minimizing criminal activities born out of desperation and misplaced mistrust.</p> <p><strong>DiversionFirst: Guiding a new path</strong></p> <p>Support from the Smile Cookie Campaign will enable the DiversionFirst program to maintain its critical operations for youths who have committed first-time, non-violent offenses. Basic supplies like journals, facility rentals, and engagement activities are crucial for youth to reconsider and reshape their futures outside the justice system. This program not only prevents entry into the legal system but also fosters personal growth and responsibility, steering participants away from a cyclical path of future offenses and recidivism.</p> <p><strong>Y:Five-0: Rehabilitation and reintegration</strong></p> <p>The funds will also support the Y:Five-0 initiative, dedicated to providing comprehensive support for our top 50 most concerning young offenders in Edmonton. By directing them towards rehabilitation through extracurricular activities, camping with mentors, and Indigenous cultural programs, we aim to reduce reoffending and foster reintegration into society. Identity, support, and community understanding will empower these individuals to transform their lives positively.</p> <p><strong>Oskayak Police Academy: Building bridges, empowering Indigenous youth</strong></p> <p>&ldquo;Oskayak&rdquo; Police Academy (meaning &ldquo;Youth&rdquo; in Cree) was created to build stronger, more meaningful relationships between Indigenous youth and the Edmonton Police Service (EPS). This two-week program is designed for self-identified Indigenous youth in Grades 10&ndash;12 and brings together both EPS practices and Indigenous worldviews.</p> <p>OPA is led by the two Indigenous Relations Advisors within EPS, with the support of many dedicated EPS members who help plan, facilitate, and support the program. Together, they create a space for learning, connection, and dialogue&mdash;challenging stereotypes and encouraging mutual understanding.</p> <p>Through cross-cultural training and relationship-building activities, youth and police officers engage in meaningful conversations that promote compassion and break down barriers. By bridging the gap between Indigenous youth and police, OPA aims to foster trust, support community safety, and inspire positive change for a more connected and respectful Edmonton.</p> <p><strong>Operation Ready, Set, School: inspiring confidence, creating safer schools</strong></p> <p>The funding will bolster Operation: Ready, Set, School, a program designed to empower at-risk youth selected by EPS School Resource Officers (SROs). Inviting youth to West Edmonton Mall, this initiative organizes a scavenger hunt to equip them with essential school supplies. By nurturing confidence and readiness for the school year, these young individuals are more likely to excel academically, minimizing potential involvement in troubling activities. Additionally, through engaging with their SROs in this friendly environment, they can build robust, trusting relationships, ultimately enhancing safety and support throughout the school year.</p> <p><strong>Operation Find Santa: uniting through adventure</strong></p> <p>Operation Find Santa is a mission-driven scavenger hunt held at West Edmonton Mall, aimed at fostering strong, positive relationships between police officers and Indigenous families in Edmonton. At the heart of this elaborate, theatrical event, families are invited to have breakfast with Santa at the Fantasyland Hotel alongside members of the Edmonton Police Service. However, the excitement heightens when it&rsquo;s revealed that Santa has been kidnapped by the Grinch, as announced by Police Chief Devin Laforce. This revelation sets off an adventurous quest in which families and police officers form teams to search the mall for clues, encountering various treats and relationship-building activities along the way. The shared journey culminates in locating the Grinch, rescuing Santa, and recovering all the Christmas gifts and groceries, creating a triumphant and heartwarming conclusion. Through this collaborative and festive experience, Operation Find Santa aims to bridge the gap between Indigenous families and the police service by building trust and mutual understanding. Stronger trust in police fosters a safer community by enhancing cooperation, reducing misunderstandings, and encouraging a collaborative approach to safety and justice.</p> <p>To learn more about how Santa is saved, please watch this CTV story:&nbsp;<a href="https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/local-kids-and-cops-crack-christmas-case-at%20west-edmonton-mall-1.6681734" target="_blank">CTV News Story</a></p> <p><strong>Youth Recruit Academy: understanding policing and building connections</strong></p> <p>The EPS&rsquo; Youth Recruit Academy (YRA) provides high school students with a glimpse into the career of an EPS recruit constable. Designed to offer young individuals&rsquo; insight into the first year as a police recruit, the YRA allows participants to collaborate with EPS members, ask questions, and connect with peers who share an interest in policing. By understanding policing more deeply, youth can foster stronger relationships with law enforcement, leading to enhanced trust and cooperation within the community. This understanding promotes a shared sense of responsibility, encourages positive interactions, and empowers youth to contribute to safer communities through informed perspectives on public safety and crime prevention initiatives. Join us in making a difference in the lives of Edmonton&rsquo;s youth by participating in the 2025 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign. All proceeds help fund critical youth programs aimed at ensuring a better future for our community.</p> <p>For more information about how purchasing a Smile Cookie will benefit the community, please reach out to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elisha@edmontonpolicefoundation.com">elisha@edmontonpolicefoundation.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="tel:5872266329">587-226-6329</a>.</p> 28 Apr 2025 17:44:24 UT EPS volunteer with 9,000 hours honoured https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/VolunteerWeek <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VuP1svRbZXA?si=VBYC5QsIIvi6Wzcz" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe> <p>He&rsquo;s a gatekeeper at West Branch. One of first faces people see when seeking help from police. His name is Fred Freeman, and Fred&rsquo;s job is to listen, learn, and assess.</p> <p>&ldquo;I think of it as triage&hellip;nobody comes in here happy,&rdquo; said Freeman.</p> <p>The 82-year-old is a former engineer, and he treats his second career like a real job. Except it&rsquo;s not.</p> <p>Fred is a volunteer.</p> <p>He may not wear a badge, but Freeman is regarded as a major asset behind the counter.</p> <p>He&rsquo;s been on the job for nearly 15 years.</p> <p>&ldquo;I think it's&nbsp;exceptionally rare. I can't think of a person who puts in that kind of volunteer time,&rdquo; said front counter supervisor Constable Erika Fryk.</p> <p>&ldquo;Knowing Fred's going to be here helps us to know that we're going to get the opportunity to focus on the police work&nbsp;that we have ongoing.&rdquo;</p> <p>Fred never expected to be an EPS volunteer after retirement. In fact, he almost quit after his first shift, but he came back and decided to stay.</p> <p>&ldquo;People need three things in life to be happy: one to be loved, something to do, something to look forward to. And this gives me all of that,&rdquo; said Freeman.</p> <p>West Branch Patrol members recently gathered to pay tribute to the man with over 9,000 hours of volunteer work. Fred didn&rsquo;t stay long. He seems&nbsp;to be&nbsp;more comfortable behind the front counter than in the spotlight.</p> <p>&ldquo;These guys treat me with a lot of respect. Everybody around here does. And that's&nbsp;really&nbsp;hard to replace. That makes you feel like you're part of a team,&rdquo; said Fred.</p> 28 Apr 2025 14:25:56 UT Emergency Communication Officers graduate https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/News/SuccessStories/ECOMBGrad <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2e0hW1AZNo?si=IU4bVu30-mvZH2i3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe> <p>EPS welcomed 28 new civilian Emergency Communications Officers (ECOs) and celebrated the graduation of more than 70 others who completed training of other specialized roles within ECOMB at their formal graduation on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. </p> <p><span>ECOMB is the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the City of Edmonton. ECO&rsquo;s handle approximately 2,000 calls per day from the public. These calls, which encompass both 9-1-1 emergencies needing police, fire, or ambulance and non-emergency inquiries, are answered, evaluated, and dispatched accordingly. ECOs serve as the vital connection between the community and the public safety services they depend on.&nbsp; </span></p> <p><span>Becoming an ECO is a rigorous application and training process, and less than 6 per cent of first-time applicants are successful in becoming an ECO. The training equips graduates to play a vital role in ensuring the safety of their community. These new ECO&rsquo;s come to the Branch with various backgrounds in customer service, law, science, and military. </span></p> <p><span>An ECO working a regular 12-hour shift speaks to upwards of 80 people per shift. Last year alone (2024), ECOMB received almost one million calls. While an ECO primarily works behind the scenes, the impact they have on public safety is immeasurable. This is all the more reason to celebrate their achievements and recognize the critical role they play in keeping residents safe. As the first of the first responders, ECOs ensure the fast and accurate transmission of information related to fire, medical and law enforcement emergencies.</span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;The calls that we receive range from the most critical life-threatening emergencies, fires, heart attacks, criminal incidents, right down to things like neighbour disputes, says ECOMB Director Kay Anderson. Our emergency communications officers have to be able to switch back and forth to help the public no matter what the situation is.&rdquo;</span></p> <p><span>In recognition of their vital work, the City of Edmonton has proclaimed April 13-19, 2025, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Edmonton. </span></p> <p><span>&ldquo;We are so proud of our newest ECO graduates, and we are looking forward to the positive impact they will have on public safety in Edmonton,&rdquo; says Anderson. </span></p> <p>For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.911maketherightcall.ca/">911maketherightcall.ca</a> or the ECOMB page at <a href="https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/ECOMB">edmontonpolice.ca/ECOMB</a></p> 17 Apr 2025 20:49:50 UT