The Grande Prairie Police Service (GPPS) officially assumed responsibility for policing within the City of Grande Prairie today, becoming the police of jurisdiction and completing the transition to a municipal police service two years ahead of schedule.
Beginning today, GPPS officers will respond to all police calls within city limits. Policing services continue without interruption, and residents should continue using 9-1-1 for emergencies and 780-830-5700 for non-emergency police matters.
Police call-taking and dispatch services are now provided through the City of Grande Prairie's Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC). As part of GPPS' tiered public safety model, dispatchers coordinate responses involving police, Grande Prairie Enforcement Services, and Mobile Outreach to help ensure the right team responds at the right time.
"Today marks a significant milestone for the City of Grande Prairie," says Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton. "This transition reflects years of planning, collaboration, and commitment from many people and organizations. We are proud to welcome the Grande Prairie Police Service as our police service, marking a new chapter in public safety built on local oversight, strong community partnerships, and a shared commitment to keeping Grande Prairie safe."
Since 2024, GPPS officers have worked alongside the Grande Prairie RCMP while preparing to assume responsibility for municipal policing. During that time, the service recruited and trained officers and civilian staff, developed policies and procedures, expanded operational capabilities, built partnerships, and established the systems necessary to support a municipal police service. Today, GPPS assumes responsibility for policing in Grande Prairie with a team of experienced officers and civilian professionals dedicated exclusively to serving the community.
"The Grande Prairie Police Commission has been proud to support the development of a police service built specifically to meet the needs of our community," says Grande Prairie Police Commission Chair Dan Wong. "Today's milestone reflects years of planning and preparation, and there are so many people to thank for making this day possible."
"Today marks a historic moment for Grande Prairie," says GPPS Chief Dwayne Lakusta. "The Grande Prairie Police Service is proud to officially assume responsibility for policing our community. As we begin this new chapter, our commitment is clear: to deliver professional policing, strengthen public trust, and work alongside our community to keep Grande Prairie safe. Our success will be measured by the confidence we earn and the service we provide every day."
GPPS recognizes the longstanding service of the Grande Prairie RCMP and its contributions to public safety in the community over the past eight decades, as well as its support throughout the transition process.
Residents looking for information about the policing transition, available services, and how to contact GPPS can visit gppolice.com.