(Submitted photo/Saskatchewan RCMP)

By Nigel Maxwell

Public safety

Sask. RCMP names new Commanding Officer

Apr 29, 2021 | 10:24 AM

The new commanding officer for the Saskatchewan division of the RCMP, says police intelligence and inter-provincial communication will be among the keys to addressing increasing rates of rural crime and gang violence.

Assistant commissioner Rhonda Blackmore joined the RCMP 25 years ago and has served in Saskatchewan, Ottawa and Alberta. Her most recent post was in northwestern Alberta. Acknowledging the people being charged with committing the various drugs and weapons-related crimes have been from other centres such as Edmonton, Blackmore said it’s important officers in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba work together.

“The criminals don’t say, oh, it’s the border, and stop and we can’t do that either. That’s certainly one of the benefits of the RCMP being one organization,” she said.

Blackmore explained Alberta and Saskatchewan share a lot of similarities in their geographical challenges, and a focus must be on making sure police are in the key areas to deliver services. A big part of the approach has been addressed through the crime reduction team. Blackmore added it’s also important to know there is a direct connection between rural crime and addictions, noting the people committing the crimes are often doing so to pay for their drugs.

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Another key priority for Blackmore going forward is reconciliation with indigenous communities. She said she plans to reach out and communicate with the various community leaders.

“It’s not the time to try and create relationships when there is a crisis. You need to make sure that you develop and foster those relationships and have developed that level of trust with individuals,” she said.

Commenting on her return to Saskatchewan, Blackmore referred to it as feeling like a bit of a “homecoming.” She said she is committed to serving both the officers of “F” Division, as well as the people who live and work in the province.

“I got great advice from a deputy commissioner many years ago who said take care of your people and your career will take care of itself. It’s kind of worked out for me that way,” she said.

Blackmore officially started her new position on April 12. The appointment was made in collaboration with the province of Saskatchewan.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell