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(Image Credit: Everything GP Staff/Nathaniel Leigh)
By Nathaniel Leigh
Grande Prairie Police Service

GPPS increasing response to repeat offenders

May 8, 2026 | 6:00 AM

Grande Prairie Police Service is increasing enforcement to address habitual offenders causing harm and disorder in the community.

The new police services say a small number of individuals are responsible for a disproportionate number of incidents and that they will be working with the justice system and partner agencies to identify them.

“We are committed to working with our partners to support people and connect them to the help they need,” says GPPS Chief Dwayne Lakusta. “But where individuals continue to cause harm and are not engaging with those supports, enforcement must be part of the response. This type of behaviour cannot be allowed to continue.”

Police will be working to resolve ongoing issues like open-air drug use, vandalism, and encampments in public spaces.

“Grande Prairie is a strong and growing community, and people deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods,” says Chief Lakusta. “We will always lead with compassion and respect, but we will not allow a small number of individuals to continually impact the broader community. Where necessary, we will take enforcement action.”

Police officers will conduct coordinated efforts in high-impact areas, including regular cleanups and proactive engagement near locations like Wapiti House.

by Nathaniel Leigh