Here is the second and final part of The Reminder’s interview with Flin Flon RCMP Sgt. Shayne Smith.
REMINDER: What is your approach to public drunkenness in the downtown area?
SMITH: This is an issue that has garnered some attention and will likely continue to generate much discussion.
Our traditional mainstay of a police approach has been reaction-based. However, having attended various meetings with concerned citizens and local committees on the issue, I recognized a need to reevaluate our response to this issue, and additional initiatives were included to form and broaden our downtown strategy.
Implemented in April 2013 as an approach to address loitering and public intoxication concerns, and as a crime-prevention tool, foot patrols [were] the impetus for Flin Flon RCMP’s overall downtown strategy.
The current strategy utilizes a three-tiered approach to target peak service-delivery periods and help address or mitigate issues of the downtown:
1. Foot patrols: Flin Flon RCMP will conduct periodic foot patrols. This allows for a uniform presence throughout certain times to enhance public safety and community interaction.
2. Police cruiser patrols: In tandem and in support of foot patrols, Flin Flon RCMP will also undertake PC patrols during peak service delivery periods.
3. Zero-tolerance policy: Flin Flon RCMP recognizes the right for persons to live in a safe community.
Certain behaviours will not be tolerated and persons committing offences or found to be in non-compliance of court or other orders will be charged accordingly.
REMINDER: How common of offence is driving under the influence in Flin Flon?
SMITH: Flin Flon RCMP investigates and receives a number of impaired-related matters throughout the year and lays charges accordingly.
During the 2013-2014 fiscal year, for example, 42 impaired-related complaints were received to Flin Flon RCMP, which resulted in 19 impaired-related charges being laid.
The message has to be made clear that drinking and driving is not tolerated nor acceptable – you will be charged and the consequences are significant.
REMINDER: What should each resident do to avoid becoming a victim of crime?
SMITH: There are a number of resources available and one can simply peruse the Internet for simple yet effective ways of making yourself or your home more safe.
Common sense always prevails and some simple suggestions are to lock your vehicle at night, don’t keep valuables in your vehicle, and if you hear or see something suspicious, please call us.
REMINDER: Is there anything else you would like the public to know?
SMITH: “A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.”
Henrik Ibsen
