Re: RCMP need to focus on catching criminals: Mountain View County councillor
In reading the article, I was very discouraged at the treatment and disrespect shown to the RCMP from one specific councillor written in the article from the June 14 meeting.
Perhaps this councillor should learn more about the situations the RCMP are faced with and the arrest and release that is going on in the courts.
I personally watched the RCMP of Olds (and sheriffs department from Red Deer) deal with a drug dealer down my street.
The RCMP arrested him on multiple occasions around the Mountain View County area while he continued to be released by the courts, once being held for a couple of weeks at most.
This man is violent, reckless and abused many RCMP over and over, while the RCMP continued to hold their integrity and composure in the hope that perhaps this would be the time he would stay in prison.
They are arresting the criminals and doing their jobs to the best of their abilities.
I couldn’t say I would be as patient and serving as the RCMP are in these situations, with the over-and-over arrest of the same criminals.
I commend them for their continued hard work and dedication to the communities they serve.
As parents of two young ladies, my husband and I appreciate the pancake breakfast and the RCMP going into the school to allow my children to see the face of the RCMP who are friends and heroes they can call if they need help.
It is an extremely important area for the community and helps children see these wonderful RCMP and maybe decide if one day they would like to walk in those shoes and become an officer.
Talking about mental health, I do also believe it is important for the RCMP to be reminded in these community events that they are respected, important, appreciated and needed.
They then get to see the smiling faces of the community residents they serve and protect. This may remind them of why they chose this difficult career.
They need us as a community to tell them ‘good job’ and give them encouragement. ‘You are good and what you do is noticed by many who cheer you on.’
The RCMP’s mental health is of importance as well, so please don’t forget that, Coun. Gord Krebs.
Instead of the criticism (perhaps from a lack of insight on the situation), say a great big thank you to those who are keeping our communities safe to the best of their abilities.
It was them arresting this man I referred to over and over, trying their very best to keep the Olds area safe. This is only one of many situations in the communities.
On an ending note, I would like to say thank you to the RCMP for their dedication and hard work in the communities they serve.
Crystal Wollman,
Olds
