Red Deer, Alta. – Red Deer RCMP is highlighting a significant drop in the Crime Severity Index (CSI), following the release of Statistics Canada’s 2024 Report. The new data shows that Red Deer’s CSI value decreased by 19.7%, from 147.8 in 2023 to 118.7 in 2024; a result that reflects the impact of strategic policing and collaboration with the community. The CSI measures both the volume and seriousness of police-reported crime. Red Deer’s reduction outpaces the provincial decrease and signals positive momentum in the city’s ongoing efforts to reduce crime.
This outcome aligns with the priorities set out in Red Deer’s Annual Policing Plan (APP), which was developed by analyzing crime trends along with community consultation and input by Red Deer City Council. In 2024, the APP focused on three main areas: Police Visibility and Public Safety, Intelligence-Led Police Response, and Community Engagement and Partnerships. These priorities help to guide how resources are deployed and how units across the detachment work to reduce crime.
RCMP units across the detachment work together, each targeting crime through their respective mandates. Much of the overall decrease in CSI can be attributed to the drop in Break and Enter offences, which fell by 369 incidents compared to 2023. Additional decreases were also seen in Assaults and Theft Under $5000.
Key actions that contributed to the reduction include:
- Increased patrols and proactive police presence, particularly by General Duty, Downtown Patrol Unit (DPU), Youth and Community Action Team (YCAT), and Traffic Services. These efforts focused on high-traffic areas and known crime corridors.
- Enhanced enforcement capacity and modernization through the use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (drones), helping locate and arrest individuals more efficiently.
- Specialized teams such as the General Investigation Section and Crime Reduction Team used intelligence-led strategies such as Targeted Response to Auto Theft (TARP) and other projects to focus on prolific offenders and reduce repeat offences.
- Virtual Opioid Dependency Program Unit (VODP) and DPU actively engaged individuals facing addictions and connected them with treatment and support services. These teams also worked with downtown businesses to share strategies for crime prevention.
- Public education campaigns led by YCAT and the Public Information Officer, offering tips and crime trend updates aimed at reducing victimization and improving public awareness.
- Red Deer RCMP also continued its focus on data-driven policing, using up-to-date crime analysis to direct resources where they are needed most.
“This drop in crime severity shows what is possible when police, community partners, and residents work together towards a common goal” said Insp. Brock Linaker. “We are proud of the progress made and are committed to continuing the momentum in 2025 and beyond.”
While the results are encouraging, Red Deer RCMP continues to assess local crime trends and adjust response strategies as needed. Ongoing efforts remain in place to lower crime across all categories and maintain this positive direction in 2025. Red Deer RCMP encourages residents to take an active role in crime prevention by reporting suspicious activity, securing property, and sharing public safety information with others.
“Our citizens continue to be appreciative and thankful for the diligence and commitment of our RCMP partners,” said Mayor Ken Johnston. “Their dedication to smart policing and strategic enforcement have undoubtedly contributed to making our community safer.”
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