A targeted enforcement project downtown has kept members of the Lethbridge Police Service busy over the past few months.
The initiative started in the spring and LPS says between March and December 11, 442 outstanding warrants were executed, 304 people were arrested for open drug use, and 202 criminal charges were laid.
Police say 2,054 doses of methamphetamine and fentanyl were taken off local streets, officers recovered six stolen vehicles, as well as multiple weapons. The LPS adds officers reported 403 positive interactions with business owners and people in the community.
The downtown enforcement project was a partnership between the Downtown Policing Unit, Crime Suppression Team, Property Crimes Unit, High Risk Offenders Unit and Community Peace Officers.
Members of the Alberta Sheriffs SCAN Unit assisted on certain enforcement days and between both organizations, LPS says over 730 hours were invested in downtown safety.
The LPS says the plan is to continue deploying resources for similar projects in 2025.
Starting in January, four additional officers will be added to the Downtown Policing Unit. With these new positions, the unit will include six Constables and a Sergeant.
