Police foot patrols will return to Courtenay this spring, according to a statement from Comox Valley RCMP.
The statement posted to social media on April 23 said RCMP’s foot patrol initiative is returning based on last year’s success. According to media relations at the local detachment, the initiative will grow compared to last year.
“There are increased hours and the patrols are starting in April, instead of May,” said media relations officer Cst. Monika Terragni. The release said that police will be walking through high traffic areas suc has “downtown, parks, public spaces and trails.”
Besides catching crime, the foot patrols can also offer other benefits, reads the social media statement from Comox Valley RCMP.
“They facilitate in-person interactions between officers and community members, fostering trust, rapport, and a sense of security. Having police officers in high traffic areas can deter criminal activity and provide an opportunity for them to address concerns and offer assistance.”
The initiative started in the summer of 2023. Mayor Bob Wells told the Record last year that the project started as a result of community feedback and requests.
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