Another milestone in the transition to a municipal police service for the City of Grande Prairie has been reached with the graduation of the Grande Prairie Police Service’s first-ever Experienced Officer class. A ceremony was held the morning of June 21, 2024 at the Teresa Sargent Hall in front of a crowd of dignitaries, colleagues, and family.
The five graduates have extensive experience as police officers with the RCMP, Toronto Police Service, and other municipal police services. Their experience in specialties like Forensic Identification, High Risk Tactics, Community Engagement, and Serious Crimes investigations will make them leaders as the service continues to grow and welcomes its first recruit class this fall.
“Building a new police service is no small feat; it requires a dedicated team with experience and knowledge to help establish our foundation in developing a modern police service all residents are sure to be proud of. Each of these officers carries with them a wealth of knowledge, a depth of experience, and a commitment to the principles that define this profession.” – Grande Prairie Police Service Chief Dwayne Lakusta.
“This occasion marks the completion of another significant milestone in our transition to a municipal police service. Throughout the last year, we have seen significant progress and to be here today to take part in celebrating the first experience officer graduation is definitely a highlight for the Commission.” - Grande Prairie Police Commission Chair Dan Wong.
“The Experienced Officer Program Graduation is a significant milestone in our municipal police force transition, and a great moment of celebration for the Grande Prairie Police Service as this is the first class, and all training was provided locally. City Council extends our sincerest congratulations to our new graduates. We look forward to the experience and expertise the graduates are going to bring to community safety in Grande Prairie.” - City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton.
GPPS’ Experienced Officer Program lasts approximately five weeks and includes training on the Police Act, trauma-informed care, Indigenous teachings, firearms, mental health first aid, Conducted Energy Weapons, unconscious bias, Immediate Action Rapid Deployment, first aid, policies, and more. All the training is delivered locally with community partners.
Over the coming weeks, the sworn officers will start to fill a variety of positions. Two members will work with the Grande Prairie RCMP detachment, one will work out of the regional ALERT office, and two will remain with the Grande Prairie Police Service Transition Team developing the GPPS Forensic Identification Unit, SWAT/Tactical Team, and working with the Community Engagement Team.