Statistics
During the second quarter of 2012 Princeton RCMP responded to 429 calls for service, compared with 487 calls during the second quarter of 2011. This corresponds to a decrease of 12 per cent.
Reports relating to thefts from vehicles declined to average numbers after an increase in the first quarter, while vehicle thefts continue to be low. The two stolen vehicle reports attended to by RCMP this quarter occurred overnight April 30 to May 1. One vehicle was damaged in an unsuccessful attempt to steal it while another was taken from the bowling alley and recovered on Thomas Ave. soon afterwards. Both vehicles’ ignitions had been punched. Break and enters, categorized as “other”, i.e. seasonal residences, saw an increase this quarter; rural and seasonal residences in Hedley, on Nickel Plate FSR and on Shingle Creek Road were reported broken into in the last three months.
Initiatives and Priority Areas
Drug Enforcement
In the second quarter of 2012 Princeton RCMP investigated six founded drug offences. Two males were arrested on May 8 after they was spotted conducting a drug deal just off of Princeton-Summerland Road. One of the males was charged with trafficking and the other with possession. They are currently out on bail awaiting court.
Traffic Safety
Between April and June of 2012 Princeton RCMP charged one driver with impaired driving under the Criminal Code. A further three drivers were given 90 day Immediate Roadside Prohibitions (IRPs), while one driver was given a 30 day IRP, three drivers were given 24 hour suspensions for drug use and one driver was given a 24 hour suspension for alcohol use.
Members also continue to be proactive in conducting school zone enforcement during peak periods.
Community Engagement
The Princeton detachment had a very busy quarter with community events. Some of the events of note that were supported by detachment personnel included the Princeton Diamond Dinner; Cooper’s Foods Fundraiser for Princeton Highway Extrication Society; Jump Rope for Heart; Bocce with Princeton Special Olympics and the Rick Hansen Relay Committee.
In addition, Princeton members regularly attend and support; Princeton Posse Jr Hockey Club, Brownies, Princeton Legion Youth Night, Princeton Minor Posse, Princeton Ground Search and Rescue, Princeton Inter-Agency meetings, Princeton Swim Club and the Princeton Figure Skating club.
The Princeton detachment maintains a Community Consultative Group and remains in regular contact with the committee. Sgt. Clare has attended council meetings when requested and participates in the Highway 3 Corridor Liaison in partnership with ICBC/Traffic Services/BC Coroners Service/MOT.
The Princeton Restorative Justice program has been used with success and the members continue to refer files as appropriate. There are currently five active volunteer facilitators with two files in development and one file processed this reporting period.
Princeton RCMP continues to appreciate the support from Citizens On Patrol, who remain a valuable resource for the detachment.
RCMP members conduct foot patrols in the downtown centre throughout the year as an excellent opportunity to connect informally with the community.
Prolific and Chronic Nuisance Offenders
There are currently zero individuals in the Princeton RCMP detachment area who match the criteria for chronic nuisance offender.