La Loche RCMP questioned about external investigation at town hall meeting

By Derek Cornet, larongeNOW

Residents of La Loche were looking for answers about an ongoing investigation by the Estevan Police Service at a town hall meeting May 16.

“We were not able to answer these questions as quite simply: It is the Estevan Police Service’s investigation to conduct,” Staff Sgt. Conrad Logan wrote in a press release. “Therefore, it would be improper and unprofessional for the RCMP to comment or speculate on the investigation while it is being completed.”

The Estevan Police Service arrived in La Loche on the weekend to investigate an incident involving the RCMP and a member of public who sustained injuries during an arrest and was ultimately sent to a Saskatoon hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Logan stated more than 100 residents attended the meeting, which lasted about three hours.

Some of the other issues discussed included what the detachment was doing to address substance abuse, the enhancement of Combined Traffic Services, the implementation of the Crime Reduction Team and talk about how these, as well as other RCMP initiatives, can support the detachment and community. There were also questions about what to do when being arrested, what resisting arrest means and what constitutes an assault on a police officer. Logan stated a full explanation with examples was provided for each of the questions.

“I encourage anyone in La Loche to bring forward their questions and concerns to the RCMP,” he wrote. “Stop by the detachment, stop a member on the street – we are always available to have a conversation or answer questions.”

Prior to the town hall meeting, a bike rodeo and community barbecue were also held. Logan noted about 300 people attended the event and officers did basic maintenance on kids bikes and ensured they were ready for summer. Logan added he’s thankful for the support of the La Loche Friendship Centre, North Sask. Victim Services and the assistance of volunteers in the endeavor.

“Being relatively new to La Loche, I wanted to take this opportunity to share my appreciation for the engagement displayed by the community,” Logan stated.