Over the holidays, a number of checkstops will likely be set up around the city. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Impaired driving offences on the rise in Prince Albert

Dec 7, 2024 | 11:30 AM

As we approach the holiday season, the Prince Albert Police Service is encouraging residents who consume alcohol or cannabis, to plan a safe ride home.

According to the November 2024 crime statistics report, offences related impaired driving have seen a 21 per cent increase this year.

Up to November 30, there were 63 reported occurrences compared to 52 for the same period last year.

Impaired driving is however not the only category showing an increase.

Arson has risen by nearly 20 per cent and break-and-enter offences involving outbuildings of businesses have increased by 42 per cent.

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The news isn’t all bad.

The City of Prince Albert has experienced a nearly 12 per cent decrease in violent crimes in 2024 compared to 2023.

From January 1 to November 30, 2024, there were 1,529 incidents of violent crime reported in the city, down from 1,736 during the same period in 2023.

Decreases have been observed in attempted murder, assaults, robberies, and uttering threats.

Property crime has also decreased by 18 per cent in 2024.

Overall calls for service have also decreased in 2024, with 37,555 calls recorded compared to 39,507 during the same period in 2023.

“Although the overall trends are encouraging, we recognize the significant impact that crime has on individuals and our community as a whole,” Chief of Police Patrick Nogier stated in a news release. “As a police service, we are committed to evaluating how, when, and where crime is occurring. By understanding these patterns, we aim to implement proactive measures to address and prevent crime, rather than relying solely on reactive responses.”

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @princealbertnow