Success Stories

EPS backs unique art project in the heart of Norwood

30 Oct 2025 19:34:18 UT

“I guess it was more like a love letter.”

It was a rainy day in downtown Edmonton when the project began, not ideal for mural painting, but Norwood community volunteers were undeterred.

“What we know is the resilience of our community is second to none. And so, a little bit of rain and wind will not stop us from creating the mural of our dreams,” said Laurie Fagan of the Norwood Child and Family Resource Centre.

Lead artist Lorraine Shulba, an accomplished painter, knows Norwood very well.

“Over the long time that I've been involved with this area, I've seen how many hearts and passion that people have for this neighborhood. It's gotten a bad rap over the years and it's really unfortunate, because we have a bustling family, like all different walks of life live here,” said Shulba.

The mission: put paint to cement and create an art piece that may help soften people’s perceptions of the bustling community and improve relationships.

“The purpose of the mural really is to bring community together and to create beautification within the Norwood community. And so, we want EPS to be involved so that we can de-stigmatize the issues that some of our community members have with police,” added Fagan.

EPS members were on hand with paint and brushes. Sgt. Mark Kachkowski says this was a great opportunity to connect with community members and set the tone for future interactions.

“They see that we're out painting with them or that we're talking to them. And so that's important just to see that. ‘Hey, you know what? I remember that police officer that was painting with me in the rain a couple weeks back or a few months ago, and I'm going to go back to them and I'm going to approach them.’ Just that softer, gentler side of that community engagement,” said Kachkowski.

For days and weeks, Shulba battled the elements. Rain, heat and long hours. She worked twelve to fifteen hours some days. Shulba would get tired but was never deterred.

“When you start to see things come alive and the detail, it just, you know, revitalizes your energy and your excitement for the project. And I've met so many wonderful people. They come visit me every day.”

Those visits pushed and motivated Shulba who describes herself as a perfectionist. After weeks of work, she was finally ready to reveal the mural outside the Norwood Child and Family Resource Centre.

“My reaction was very emotional,” said Fagan. “Not only do you see Lorraine's art and creativity in this, but you see her heart and soul. And, as I said to her, it's not like the murals you see on the sides of houses in the rich neighborhoods. This is something that's really embedded in a vulnerable community where we deserve to have those same types of riches.”

Shulba has since moved on to the next project. However, it’s clear that this painting is a reflection of her fondness for the people who live in a place close to her heart.

“It was almost like a little gift, but I guess it was more like a love letter. I'm just here to send a message. And I've seen some darkness, and to be able to give some light into the world, that's my M.O. That's what I'm here to do.”

EPS Cadets find out what it takes to make the cut!

25 Oct 2025 20:21:39 UT

The next class of EPS cadets felt out of their comfort zone on training night. The source of concern? A mixture of inanimate objects that make up the dreaded A-prep test.

“It is a big moment”

The next class of EPS cadets felt out of their comfort zone on training night. The source of concern? A mixture of inanimate objects that make up the dreaded A-prep test.

“It is a big moment,” said Constable Amy Humphreys.

The A-prep test is a series of physical challenges that must be completed in a certain time. It is mandatory and one of the primary hurdles for all hopeful EPS recruits.

“We're exposing our cadets to the physical fitness component of our application process so that they can better prepare themselves and understand better what it takes to be a police officer,” added Humphreys.

Drills and protocol are one thing but this is the test that most Cadets are worried about. It’s not a “do-or-die” type of situation yet, but they also know this is the test that could make or break their policing dreams.

“It’s a little bit nerve wracking because obviously I want be a police officer…I mean, if I do bad, I know what to improve on. If I do good, well, we're on the right track,” said Natalya Rouse.

On this night, the time standard was two minutes and 15 seconds, and participants also had to wear weighted belts. Cadet Bijed Ters barely missed the mark.

“It was hard. Yeah. Very challenging. The belt added a couple extra pounds, which is not something that I'm used to for sure…I missed it by five seconds. So, by next time I'm going to hit it.”

Cadet Tehya Dickson was exhausted after her run through the A-prep, but appreciated the experience.

“I'm really glad they do this. It shows everybody's, it puts everybody to a certain standard that they all have to meet, and I think that's really good.”

The A-prep test doesn’t allow for excuses and it’s also a unifying for these young cadets who face the challenge together.

“They will help each other through everything…Their personalities, their commitment to the program, their team at work, their leadership skills. It all is setting them up for success in a policing career,” said Humphreys who added there are definitely future police officers in the

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.