Supplied RCMP website

By Abby Zieverink

RCMP tips

Grande Prairie RCMP provide tips following uptick in police impersonations

Nov 10, 2021 | 12:54 PM

Over the last two weeks, RCMP has received two reports of people allegedly impersonating peace officers in Grande Prairie.

With the recent rise in reports, Cst. Lindsay Ralph with the Grande Prairie RCMP is reminding residents these types of situations are not taken lightly.

“Whether that would be they’re pretending to be a police officer or their vehicle is equipped to look like a police vehicle, we do want to ensure these types of incidents are reported to local police and that we’re able to investigate them and determine who is doing this,” she explained.

With that, Ralph tells residents they can always request identification from anyone who identifies themselves as a police officer.

“Citizens can request to see the officer’s badge, police badge or police photo identification card that would contain the officers’ name, date of birth, and their badge number.”

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“In those particular cases, we would recommend the person slows down and drives in a safe manner and try to get to a well-lit area,” she said.

If anyone gets pulled over and there is concern about the legitimacy of the officer or the vehicle, Ralph suggests locking the vehicle doors and calling the non-emergency phone line to identify if there is an officer at their location.

She says to call 911 if there is a concern for their safety or wellbeing.

“Calmly just explain to the 911 operator what the concern is and what’s happening there, providing your location. Often times the 911 operator is able to see where the police cars are in the city and would be able to provide more information on that.”

Ralph tells EverythingGP if there is a concern after the fact, residents can also contact the Grande Prairie RCMP to inquire about the information or report the incident.