The first class of Grande Prairie Police Service recruits have begun their training, marking another milestone in the agency’s ongoing journey to take over policing in the city.
On September 9th, 12 recruits commenced their six-month Police Cadet Training program, provided by Lethbridge Polytechnic. Classes will be taking place at the GPPS’ recruitment and training centre at NWP, as well as several other community facilities to learn subjects surrounding law, community policing, firearms training, evidence and statement collection, Indigenous awareness, and more.
GPPS officials suggest that this batch of recruits was selected from nearly 200 applicants after an “extensive” hiring process; which included written and physical testing, character assessments, psychological testing, and background investigations.
GPPS Chief Dwayne Lakusta says every single recruit that was chosen “exemplifies” the agency’s core values, and he says he looks forward to seeing them excel in training and calling their names during next year’s graduation.
“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,” he says.
Eight of the recruits are Peace Country locals, while two came from other Alberta communities, and two are from British Columbia.
