Local MLA looks at possible solutions to address rural crime

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer

With rural crime seemingly on the increase, the local MLA is looking at ways to address the situation.

Pat Stier, MLA for Livingstone-Macleod, has teamed up with his federal counterpart John Barlow, MP for Foothills, on a series of public meetings around their shared constituency, including sessions in Okotoks and Fort Macleod.

“We’re going to be hearing what people have been experiencing,” Stier said.

He noted both he and Barlow have been receiving complaints on a number of rural crime issues, such as stolen vehicles and break and enter on rural properties.

Stier observed a lot of this has to do with the downturn in the economy, resulting in a lack of jobs and work and, in some cases, mental health issues.

“Some of the people resort to desperate measures,” Stier said.

“It’s getting more prevalent in rural Alberta.”

The meeting in Fort Macleod on Feb. 20 attracted a good crowd, where the RCMP were also present.

“We’re seeing what we need to do as elected officials,” Stier said.

He added he will be taking what he hears and leaning on the provincial government as they determine priorities for the upcoming provincial budget.

That could be mean extra RCMP members.

It will mean looking at the justice system and why criminals are arrested and turned out the next morning, only to re-offend, and improvements to the court system.

It also means looking at a better support system for people who need help.

Stier also emphasized there are measures people can take to help themselves such as joining rural crime watch and putting up signs; and installing gates to their property.

“If we would all protect our property better, we’d be much better off,” he said.

People should also report crimes quickly when they occur.

“We’re trying to assist and work with the RCMP and the other enforcement agencies,” Stier said.

(Please see related story on page two)