Calgary

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Police Services

An introduction to local law enforcement and public safety measures in Calgary.

Sections

1. Overview of Calgary Police Service (CPS)

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) is the municipal law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and preventing crime in Calgary. CPS is known for its community-oriented approach, focusing on building trust and collaboration with the public.

  • Website: Calgary Police Service
  • Motto: "Vigilance, Courage, Pride"
  • Languages: CPS officers and staff can assist in multiple languages, and interpreters are available when needed.

2. Emergency Services

In Calgary, emergencies are handled promptly by CPS in collaboration with other first responders like fire and medical services.

When to Call 911

Dial 911 for emergencies that require immediate police, fire, or medical assistance. Examples include:

  • Crimes in progress (e.g., assault, robbery, or break-ins)
  • Threats to life or safety
  • Serious car accidents
  • Suspicious activities that pose an immediate danger

Important Notes:

  • 911 is free to call from any phone, including payphones and cell phones without active service.
  • Be prepared to provide your location, the nature of the emergency, and any relevant details.

3. Non-Emergency Services

For non-urgent matters, CPS provides several ways to report issues or seek assistance.

Non-Emergency Line

  • Phone: 403-266-1234
  • Use this number for situations that do not pose an immediate threat to life or property, such as:
    • Reporting a crime that has already occurred (e.g., theft, vandalism)
    • Noise complaints
    • Suspicious but non-urgent activities
    • General inquiries about police services

Online Reporting

CPS offers an online reporting tool for specific non-urgent crimes. You can report incidents such as:

  • Theft under $5,000 (excluding stolen vehicles or firearms)
  • Lost property
  • Damage to property or vehicles (e.g., vandalism)
  • Harassing communications (e.g., threatening emails or phone calls)

Website for Online Reporting: CPS Online Reporting

Police District Offices

Calgary is divided into several police districts, each with its own office. Residents and visitors can visit these offices for assistance, to file reports, or to ask questions. Check the CPS website for the district office nearest to you.

4. Reporting Crimes

CPS encourages everyone, including visitors and immigrants, to report crimes. Reporting helps the police track trends, allocate resources, and keep the community safe.

How to Report a Crime

  • In Person: Visit a district office or the CPS headquarters.
  • By Phone: Call 911 for emergencies or 403-266-1234 for non-emergencies.
  • Online: Use the online reporting tool for eligible incidents.

Anonymous Reporting

If you wish to report a crime anonymously, you can contact Crime Stoppers:

  • Phone: 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS)
  • Website: Crime Stoppers Calgary
  • Crime Stoppers allows you to provide information without revealing your identity. Rewards may be offered for tips leading to arrests.

5. Costs and Fees

Most police services in Calgary are free for residents, visitors, and immigrants. However, there are fees for certain administrative services, such as:

  • Police Information Checks (PICs): Often required for employment, volunteering, or immigration purposes.
    • Cost: $55 for standard checks; $15 for volunteers (with proof of volunteer status).
  • Fingerprinting Services: Required for some background checks.
    • Cost: Fees vary depending on the purpose (e.g., immigration, employment).
  • Collision Reports: If you are involved in a traffic accident, you may need to pay a fee to obtain a copy of the collision report.
    • Cost: Approximately $25.

For a full list of fees, visit the CPS website or contact their administrative offices.

6. Local Considerations and Guidelines

Calgary is a safe city, but itโ€™s important to be aware of local laws, cultural norms, and best practices when interacting with police services.

For Residents

  • Know Your Rights: As a resident, you have the right to fair treatment and access to police services. CPS is committed to serving all communities equally.
  • Community Programs: CPS offers various programs to engage with the community, such as neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention workshops, and youth outreach initiatives.

For Visitors

  • Carry Identification: Always carry a valid ID (e.g., passport, driverโ€™s license) in case you need to identify yourself to authorities.
  • Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with Canadian laws, such as those related to alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and traffic regulations.

For Immigrants

  • Language Support: CPS provides language assistance for immigrants who may not speak English fluently. Interpreters can be arranged for reporting crimes or accessing services.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: CPS is trained to work with diverse communities and is committed to addressing cultural concerns respectfully.
  • Immigration Status: CPS does not inquire about immigration status when you report a crime. You can safely seek help without fear of deportation or legal repercussions.

General Safety Tips

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
  • Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles or public spaces.
  • Report suspicious activities to the police, even if youโ€™re unsure whether itโ€™s a crime.

7. Community and Outreach Programs

CPS actively engages with the community to build trust and promote safety. Some notable programs include:

  • Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST): Provides emotional support and resources to victims of crime.
  • Diversity Resource Team: Works with Calgaryโ€™s diverse communities to address specific safety concerns and build relationships.
  • School Resource Officers (SROs): Officers assigned to schools to promote safety and educate students about the law.

8. Contact Information

Hereโ€™s a quick reference for contacting CPS:

  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-Emergency: 403-266-1234
  • Crime Stoppers (Anonymous Tips): 1-800-222-8477
  • CPS Headquarters:
    5111 47 St NE, Calgary, AB T3J 3R2
    Phone: 403-428-2200

9. Additional Resources

  • City of Calgary Website: www.calgary.ca
  • Alberta Justice and Solicitor General: Provides information on provincial laws and legal resources.
  • Immigrant Services Calgary: Offers support for newcomers, including legal and safety information.

By understanding how Calgary Police Service operates and how to access their services, you can feel confident navigating safety and security matters in the city. Whether youโ€™re a resident, visitor, or immigrant, CPS is there to help and ensure your experience in Calgary is safe and positive.