Grande Prairie Police Service begins training first-ever recruit class

Type(s)
News Release

Grande Prairie students aren’t the only ones going back to school this fall; a group of recruits are beginning their training to become police officers with the Grande Prairie Police Service. Another milestone in the transition, the first-ever GPPS recruit class commenced on September 9, 2024.  

The 12 recruits will spend the next six months taking Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Police Cadet Training program, as well as learning from local experts on subjects such as law, firearms, scenario assessment, community policing, evidence and statement collection, local Indigenous learning, and crisis management. Classes will take place at GPPS’ recruitment and training centre at Northwestern Polytechnic, as well as facilities like the Eastlink Centre for physical fitness training, Wapiti Shooters Club for firearms training, and NAPA Auto Parts Raceway in Beaverlodge for Emergency Vehicle Operations training.  

The recruits were selected from nearly 200 applicants following an extensive hiring process that included written and physical tests, multiple interviews to assess character and organizational fit, a polygraph exam, psychological testing, and background investigations. Eight hail from the Peace Country, while two came from elsewhere in Alberta and two from British Columbia. GPPS recruits receive a full wage during training. 

“Each of these recruits exemplify GPPS’ core values and commitment to community-focused policing, progressive practices and values, and improving the safety and wellbeing of all citizens in Grande Prairie,” says Chief Dwayne Lakusta. “I look forward to seeing them excel in training and calling their name at graduation next year.” 

“On behalf of the Grande Prairie Police Commission, I want to express our excitement in reaching this milestone in the transition to a municipal police service,” adds Grande Prairie Police Commission Chair Dan Wong. “This class represents the first locally trained recruits for GPPS and will serve the community well in the years to come. Thanks to the great partnerships built in the community and beyond, the training they receive will be second to none. We are extremely proud of these recruits and look forward to getting to know them better as they progress in their training.” 

Recruitment is underway for GPPS’ second recruit class set for 2025. For more information, visit gppolice.com/careers.