What is a Community Peace Officer (CPO)?
A CPO is someone who works to uphold and enforce bylaws and certain Provincial Statutes. A CPO is given their powers and authority under the Alberta Peace Officer Act and receive appointments from the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General.
Can I report a crime to a Community Peace Officer?
A CPO does not have the authority under the Criminal Code and are not able to engage in these types of calls for service. Your local RCMP have the ability to assist you with this type of complaint.
How many Community Peace Officers are currently with CDME?
Currently there are 2 frontline officers and one team lead. These officers are currently shared between the Towns of Coaldale and Picture Butte. These officers work 11.5 hour shifts on a 4 on 4 off rotation.
CDME also has a School Resource Officer, who is solely dedicated to the Schools in Coaldale. This officer may be seen around town; however, he is proactively ensuring the safety of all students and staff in Coaldale’s schools. This officer does not typically enforce bylaws, but regularly enforces Provincial Statues.
Finally, CDME has a Photo Radar Operator. This CPO is dedicated strictly to the Photo Radar program and does not work in a bylaw enforcement capacity.
Why do Community Peace Officers wear a vest?
The vest is a critical part of the Personal Protective Equipment that each Officer wears to ensure their safety while on the job. CPOs can encounter dangerous situations where their safety could be put in jeopardy making it essential that they have the proper equipment for the risks they may face.
Why do I see Community Peace Officers patrolling neighbourhoods?
There are a number of reasons why you see CDME officers driving around town. Officers may be responding to a complaint that has been made, or proactively patrolling the community enforcing the various municipal bylaws that exist.
Does Coaldale & District Municipal Enforcement deal with cats?
No, CDME does not deal with cats in the Town of Coaldale as there is no provisions for cat control within the Town's animal bylaws.
I have found a dog. Can I call the Peace Officers?
Yes, CDME will assist with dogs at large. Since Officers are not available all the time, before you choose to catch the animal, please make sure you are available to keep them in your care and control until CDME can come pick up the animal.
I have an issue with my neighbour’s vegetation. Can CDME help with this issue?
We are unable to assist with this issue. If the vegetation is a public safety concern (low hanging tree on a sidewalk or blocking a sign) CDME would be able to assist with the concern.
Can I make an anonymous complaint about an issue?
No, you cannot. We require your full name, address, and phone number when you make a complaint. Often times when a Peace Officer receives a complaint, the information is incomplete or there is not enough detail given. As part of the Officer’s investigation they will call the complainant and get further information about an issue. This practice also prevents people from using Peace Officers to harass their neighbors when there is a dispute between the two parties, by calling in unfounded complaints.
Does my information get released to the people I am complaining about?
No, it does not. Officers will never release your private information to another person, especially one you are complaining about. There are two exceptions to this rule. If you are required to go to court as a result of a complaint you made, then we are required by law to disclose all information to the defendant. Or if someone makes an application under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for disclosure, we may be required to release your information.
I am having issues with wildlife. Does Coaldale & District Municipal Enforcement deal with wildlife?
No, CDME does not deal with wildlife; we only pick up stray dogs. If you have a problem with a wild animal, please contact a Fish and Wildlife Officer or a local pest control company.
