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Saskatchewan Highway Patrol ready to hit the road in July

June 15, 2018  By Government of Saskatchewan


June 15, 2018 – Commercial vehicle enforcement officers in Saskatchewan have a new mandate and a new name. The Saskatchewan Highway Patrol is replacing the former Commercial Vehicle Enforcement group.

The name change reflects the newly expanded role for the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure’s enforcement team. The new name and mandate will come into effect on July 1, 2018.

“Last year, it was announced that the Protection and Response Team (PRT) would be created to help reduce crime in rural Saskatchewan,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit said.  “Officers from Commercial Vehicle Enforcement were identified as members of the team that would provide support to the RCMP and municipal police forces and they will soon be ready to do that.”

Although protecting the provincial highway system through commercial vehicle enforcement will remain the primary function for Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers, they’re receiving expanded responsibilities to support their role on the PRT.

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These responsibilities include:
• Responding to 911 calls;
• Investigating impaired drivers;
• Enforcing speed limits and other traffic violations – inside and outside of work zones;
• Taking action when someone is found committing an offence;
• Responding to motor vehicle accidents; and
• Investigating vehicles hauling livestock to ensure the health and welfare of the animals.

“We are pleased to see the additional new officers capable of responding to incidents in rural areas,” said SARM president Ray Orb. “Our membership has repeatedly noted that a timely response to emergency situations and addressing rural crime is a high priority.”

Members of the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol have received extensive training in recent months to prepare them for their new responsibilities. They’ve received training in the enhanced use of force, firearms and tactics for 911 calls, such as clearing a house of suspects and high-risk vehicle stops. Officers have also received training in dealing with people with mental health issues, as well as training in the Criminal Code and the requirements for the collection and control of evidence.


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