Success Stories

Fifth Annual Black History Month Showcase

19 Feb 2026 20:28:50 UT

“Everybody's having a lovely time. We are hosting a really good celebration here today.”

The Fifth Annual Black History Month Showcase took center stage at Northwest division, offering guests an immersive experience of music, talent, and cuisine from Edmonton’s Black community. The event, marked by vibrant performances and flavorful food, aimed to highlight the traditions and customs of Edmonton’s Black Community while fostering community awareness and celebration.

“Everybody's having a lovely time. We are hosting a really good celebration here today. The food is flavorful, there's music, there's steel pans playing. We are here to celebrate not just legacy, but the future,” said Jacqueline Kanini from Crime and Trauma Informed Support Services (CTSS).

This year’s showcase placed a strong emphasis on Black youth initiatives, featuring performances by siblings Megan and Shawn Taja of Tajas’ Tunes, as well as author Keren Konan. Christie Pace from the Community Relations Section (CRS) noted the importance of youth engagement: “We're having youth come and share their initiatives and things that they're doing this year. EPS has partnered with the Black Coalition of Canada Edmonton chapter to sponsor the Joel Whittaker Award of Excellence. It's just another way to recognize his achievements and his hard work within the EPS as a Black member.”

Attendees not only learned about Black history but also participated in hands-on activities, including a steel drum lesson led by Danille George of All Things Pan. George shared the history of steel drums, recounting their origins as tools for communication. The APAM Drum Group continued the interactive learning with a drum lesson, culminating in a friendly drumming battle between Acting Deputy Chief Keith Johnson and a member of the RCMP.

Kanini says the event is important for building partnerships between police and community. “We want to acknowledge that, the layout of Edmonton looks very different and it's going to look much more different in 10 years’ time, in 15 years’ time. And the work we do today, celebrating Black history and Black members of our community matter in the work that we do. It shapes the work that we do for the better.”

Thank you to Community Relations Section for organizing this event and to all of our volunteers.

Award celebrates people shaping police service

27 Jan 2026 14:37:11 UT

EPS named a Top Employer for the sixth time.

With its sixth Alberta’s Top 85 Employers Award, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) continues to demonstrate that an exceptional policing organization starts with exceptional people.

“An organization is defined by the people who shape it, and our people continue to set a high standard for excellence, not only in our commitment to the community but to each other,” says Police Chief Warren Driechel.

With the ongoing demands of policing, EPS has committed itself to building a culture that supports the needs of its employees. This commitment is once again being recognized by MediaCorp Canada Inc. in its annual search for exceptional workplaces.

MediaCorp assesses employers on eight criteria including workplace culture, benefits, training, and community involvement, and highlights organizations that are leading the way in workplace innovation and meeting the needs of a dynamic workforce.

“Our people bring their best every day, and the organization is committed to giving them a workplace where they can thrive. One makes the other possible,” says Director Donna Munro with the EPS Employee and Organizational Wellness Branch.

“For EPS, finding this balance is about more than innovative training programs and career development, it reflects a holistic approach to wellness and a culture of care for all employees.”

Wellness is crucial for police agencies, as operational stressors such as trauma and exposure to violence can impact both mental and physical health – contributing to burnout, relationship strain, and other long-term health challenges.

While EPS offers employees robust supports including access to fitness facilities, health spending accounts, and mental health practitioner benefits, the organization is also leading the way in peer-to-peer early intervention, creating meaningful opportunities for co-workers to check in with one another following stressful events.

EPS continues to set a new standard for police wellness by offering discretionary leave and reintegration programs, an operational stress intervention dog to provide comfort in work areas following critical incidents, and access to an onsite nurse practitioner to help expedite access to confidential clinical care.

These proactive wellness initiatives help foster resilience, reduce health risks, and create a supportive workplace culture for those who protect and serve the community. They also reaffirm the commitment employees show in looking out for one another – a defining characteristic of EPS as an employer.

“The Edmonton Police Service is an exceptional place to build a career,” adds Chief Driechel. “Our members bring professionalism, innovation, and heart to everything they do. Their efforts make EPS a Top Employer, and I am incredibly proud to see their commitment recognized once again.”

Learn more about careers with EPS at www.edmontonpolice.ca/joineps.

For more information on Alberta’s Top Employers for 2026, please visit www.canadastop100.com/alberta.

Oiler heavyweight on hand for 15th McCauley Cup

26 Jan 2026 22:30:18 UT

"I have major respect for the police officers.”

As usual, the weather did not cooperate. It was a frigid minus 19 when EPS members dropped the puck against local kids in the 15th annual McCauley Cup. Fingers and toes were frozen, but that didn’t stop people from lacing up their skates for what has become a marquee event in Edmonton.

“I think it's a fixture for the community and the city. This is 15 years, and we keep doing it,” said McCauley Rink manager and event organizer Dan Glugosh.

The game consistently attracts dozens of players and onlookers, with a few celebrities often in attendance. Like Oilers legend Al Hamilton and fan-favorite Georges Laraque, who helped with the ceremonial face-off.

“I have major respect for the police officers. The job they do, because that's what my brother does. So, my brother's been doing it for over 25 years. So, I understand all the struggle and the work that comes with the job,” said Laraque.

The McCauley rink is regarded as a gem in the heart of the neighborhood. A sanctuary for local kids. Food and equipment are always readily available, so kids can just play the game they love. Of course, those kids eventually grow up. Creating a generational ripple effect, as Glugosh says.

“We have kids that come back and bring their own kids. And that's special too.”

Fans munched on donuts, hot dogs, and sandwiches while sipping hot chocolate and coffee. The game is the main attraction, but this is really about police creating new and better relationships with community members.

“They start to generate those relationships and people put a face and a name to the badge,” said Chief Warren Driechel.

Organizing the event requires a small army of volunteers and sponsors. They work many hours before puck drop. Constable Rhyce Cotterill is one of those volunteers and says the work is worth it.

“It’s nice to kind of give back to them and show that we're not robots. We're here to have fun and enjoy our time outside of work. And it's just the community, right?”

The McCauley team managed to pull off another victory over the Police. However, the final score didn’t really matter. As Laraque notes, the greatest success may lie ahead and off the ice.

“I just think this bridge of creating a center like this, and kids could come in and meet a police officer, is the best way to make this relationship special.”

Special thanks for the Edmonton Police Foundation, sponsors, and all the volunteers and players who made this year’s McCauley Cup possible.

Christie Pace’s Leadership Bridges Gaps Between EPS And Indigenous Community

15 Dec 2025 15:31:46 UT

Christie Pace's commitment to reconciliation and cultural integrity has made her a driving force in building trust between the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and Indigenous communities.

Recently, Pace was honoured with the Government of Alberta's Inspiration Award for Indigenous leadership and Initiatives. The award honours remarkable leaders who are often unrecognized and make a profound impact in the community.

Nominated by her Community Relations colleagues, Pace was recognized for her pivotal role in the Oskyak Police Academy (OPA), a youth engagement program that has served as a cornerstone of EPS outreach for more than a decade.

"It's a hugely successful program in my eyes because you see the walls break down and relationships build. We know these youth have built lasting relationships with officers along the way, and that is a huge move forward," Pace said.

Gina Daus, Director of the Equity, Inclusion and Human Rights Branch, said Pace's leadership in shaping meaningful programs and events reflects her dedication to reconciliation. "Christie exemplifies empathy and cultural integrity, guiding us forward in a culturally safe and respectful way. Christie's commitment continues to inspire and strengthen our journey in EPS toward reconciliation," Daus said.

With 27 years in Indigenous Human Services, Pace's journey began as a volunteer at Bent Arrow, where she later became a liaison. Through this transformative experience, she realized this work was her calling. "Working at Bent Arrow provided me with an opportunity to grow and connect. It's when I started to learn about my identity, who I was as a human and as a person rooted in my culture."

Since joining EPS, Pace has expanded her impact, launching initiatives such as the Elders Council and organizing events including blanket and pipe ceremonies. Christie says bringing Indigenous ceremony to EPS is a huge win and a step in building community connections and advancing reconciliation. "We are afforded the opportunity to dream big as we walk this journey together and, in the future, I would love for more Indigenous communities to know they belong here [at EPS]," she said.

Humbled by her recent recognition, Pace said awards are not her motivation, but she values the opportunity to celebrate collective achievements. "Moments like this honour our work and remind us of the reason why we do it. It's a reminder that connection creates change," Pace said.

Pace credits her mother, a social worker, as her greatest inspiration. "She had to overcome so many different things, but I saw the difference that she was making. She always taught me the importance of using your voice even when it shakes," she said.

And that is precisely what Pace has done, leading by listening and using her voice and lived experience to affect change with compassion and kindness.

"I will continue to walk alongside the community, explore new ways to embed indigenous world views into systems and support EPS and building bridges. My goal is always the same. To make space for healing, dignity and future generations to thrive.

EPS Canine Calendars

02 Dec 2025 16:43:19 UT

EPS canine calendars are available at select Safeway and Sobeys locations in the Edmonton area.

It’s an annual challenge that never changes: creating a theme for a calendar that highlights the achievements of the EPS canine unit. As always, the dogs are the stars of the show.

“He’s the tip of the spear,” said Constable Brad Lebritton, describing his partner PSD Duco, also known as Mr. October.

“So, every year we have a new theme for the calendar. I don't envy the person who has to do that job; they have to think of something new every year.”

In previous years, Gretzky and McDavid have posed with the pooches. This year’s theme highlights local military sites.

“We are super fortunate to have the support of the Edmonton Police Foundation and their donors because not only does that help with the purchase of the dogs themselves, but it also helps with the purchase of equipment like their harnesses and cameras that they use on a daily basis,” said Lebritton.

The canine unit works alongside every patrol division in the city, as well as tactical and undercover teams.

“There's been lots of times where we've come back from a call that I've thought, ‘whew, thank God you were here, right?' He didn't know the intimate details of what we were going into, and he just did his job and he did it fully committed.”

You can buy the EPS canine calendar at select Safeway and Sobeys locations in the Edmonton area.

Shop with a Cop holiday tradition continues

27 Nov 2025 15:55:34 UT

“They’ve never been able to do something like this, ever.”

Shop with a Cop brought smiles to 25 local students at Londonderry Mall!

“It's an initiative led by the Northeast Beats team where they take 25 youth in need, shopping and these youth are not just shopping for themselves. They're also shopping for their entire family,” said Edmonton Police Foundation spokesperson Elisha Jackson.

The children were selected by their schools. Each student received three hundred dollars and gift cards to shop in any store in Londonderry Mall. The children then wrapped their gifts with police members before enjoying a pizza party.

The idea is to simply have fun while creating positive relationships with the police.

Superintendent Derek McIntyre says events like this are hugely beneficial for citizens and his colleagues.

“I had a mother with her son who came up to introduce themselves to us because she said when she grew up in this neighborhood, she was afraid of the police because she was told to be afraid of the police. And she refused to have that pass on to her son's generation. So, she tried to demystify the police to her son. ‘The police are good, the police are involved in your communities and neighborhoods, and they are safe people to be around.’ And I think events like this generate that for future generations.”

The Edmonton Police Foundation would like to thank Londonderry Mall, and sponsors Tim Horton’s and Shoppers Drug Mart for all their help in making this year’s event another success.

“Amazing story to tell for such a tragic event”

17 Nov 2025 21:01:28 UT

First responders come together for good cause.

“It’s very humbling to walk into an arena named after one of our members. I think that’s an amazing story to tell for such a tragic event.”

Chief Warren Driechel was speaking at the inaugural In Their Honour Invitational Hockey Tournament which took place this past weekend.

The event brought together first responders from across the province in an atmosphere of camaraderie, competition, and support.

It was organized by Laurie and Bob Ryan in honour of their son Constable Brett Ryan and other first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Brett was an avid hockey player and referee, and it seemed fitting to host the tournament at the Spruce Grove hockey arena named in his honour.

“We knew how much hockey meant to him,” said Laurie Ryan, “and we just felt this was the best way to honour his legacy.”

The funds raised through the tournament will be going toward scholarships and workshops for mental health for first responders.

“It’s heartwarming to find there are so many people in the first responder world who are going to support this,” Laurie Ryan said.

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!