The Grande Prairie RCMP detachment (Photo: Shaun Penner / EverythingGP staff)

By Shaun Penner

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Grande Prairie among RCMP detachments piloting online criminal record check service

Sep 22, 2021 | 11:43 AM

The Grande Prairie RCMP detachment is among the 11 detachments in Alberta which are piloting an online criminal record check service starting Wednesday.

The RCMP says the online tool will provide residents served by the detachment with criminal record check information typically obtained from the detachment. The tool is also being piloted in Bashaw, Cochrane, Consort, Drayton Valley, Drumheller, Provost, St. Albert, St. Paul, Sundre, and Sylvan Lake.

The agency says online criminal record checks will be processed within the same time frame as they are typically done in person and will be mailed to the applicant, unless arrangements have been made for collection at the detachment.

“The Alberta RCMP is always looking for new opportunities to modernize and streamline our services for all Albertans across the province,” says Deputy Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, Commanding Officer of Alberta RCMP.

“Online criminal record checks offer an accessible and convenient option. Having contactless service is also ideal in a time when physical distancing may be preferred.”

A criminal record check is obtained to determine if a person has been charged or convicted of a crime. Vulnerable sector checks (VSC) are also included in the service provision for criminal record checks.

A VSC is a police information check which is done to protect children and other vulnerable people from physical, sexual, mental, and financial abuse.

Criminal record checks will continue to be available in person at all detachments and will be the only option for any location that does not fall within the pilot program.

Online criminal record checks can be accessed here.