The Camrose RCMP detachment is now fully staffed, a milestone that comes as the county saw a 9 percent drop in overall crime during the first three months of 2026. Sgt. Ross Assoon presented the first quarter report to Camrose County council on May 26, showing fewer break-ins, a big dip in violent crime, and an ongoing focus on traffic safety.
From January to March, RCMP responded to 351 calls for service within the county. Crimes against persons fell 25 percent compared to the same period last year, and there were fewer reported break and enters. Sgt. Assoon said the drop in Criminal Code offences shows the detachment is making headway, now that it has a full team in place.
But traffic violations and collisions still make up the biggest chunk of calls. Councillor Doug Lyseng raised concerns about speeding along Highway 21, a corridor that has been on the county’s radar. Past efforts included a joint letter with the City of Camrose to the province asking for passing lanes on that stretch.
Council also heard about upcoming community outreach. Sgt. Assoon shared plans for school engagement programs and a Youth Academy set for the end of July. The academy is part of a push to connect with young people and build interest in policing careers, at a time when detachments across Alberta have struggled to fill positions.
The full staffing comes as a contrast to broader RCMP vacancies in the province. Alberta had a 21.6 percent vacancy rate in 2025, with 413 unfilled spots. Camrose’s ability to reach full staffing is a positive sign, Sgt. Assoon noted, and council welcomed the update on the detachment’s community policing plan.
