As part of its work to build a modern policing model, the Grande Prairie Police Service is conducting early tests of its drone technology. Last week, members of GPPS and Grande Prairie Enforcement Services used drones to survey portions of Muskoseepi Park and South Bear Creek Park, looking to locate potential encampments.
The initial search identified three sites of interest. One location was already being addressed by the City of Grande Prairie’s parks department, while a second site has since been referred for follow-up. The third and most concerning discovery was a more permanent encampment structure, which has since been dismantled.
Encampments and makeshift structures in park spaces can present significant safety concerns for both occupants and the overall community, including fire risks associated with heating sources.
“This work highlights how tools like drones can support a modern police service by providing better visibility in areas where concerns may otherwise go unnoticed,” says GPPS Superintendent Greg Redl. “It’s about using the right tools to work proactively with our partners and address potential safety risks early.”
This project did not involve drone video recording. Instead, it provided an aerial perspective to help officers identify areas of concern within wooded spaces that are less visible from the ground. Still images of sites were captured to support follow-up, and drones were not used for surveillance of individuals.
As the Grande Prairie Police Service prepares to become police of jurisdiction for the City of Grande Prairie, drone operations will be established as a specialized unit and used as one of many tools to support policing efforts. Additional uses could include searching for missing people, documenting crime scenes, and mapping collision scenes.
The GPPS remains focused on building a modern, community-focused police service that prioritizes safety, accountability, and responsible use of technology.
