SCAN cleans up another problem property in Edmonton

2013

August 22, 2013

Edmonton…A problem property in a west Edmonton neighbourhood has been vacated and boarded thanks to another successful SCAN investigation.

SCAN began an investigation into the home at 10736 – 149 Street following complaints of suspected drug activity and a high volume of people frequenting the property and causing disturbances. Edmonton Police Service West Division members provided assistance.

SCAN learned that the property had been a problem for Edmonton police for the last year, with 48 calls for service related to drug and property related crimes.

The home was occupied by a tenant who was allowing the property to be used as a flop house. Once the owner of the home was located, SCAN worked with her to clean up the alleged criminal activity. This included evicting the tenant and willingly fencing and boarding the property on the recommendation of SCAN.

“In the majority of cases, we are able to negotiate a resolution with the property owner without having to go to court, and this is a prime example of that,” commented SCAN Manager Chip Sawchuk. “By shutting down the property, we leave the community safer and we also significantly reduce the drain on police time and resources caused by chronic problem properties.”

While police deal with criminal complaints against people, SCAN investigators use civil legislation to target problem properties around the province used for illegal purposes such as prostitution, drug use and trafficking, and gang activity. SCAN conducts investigations into residences and commercial properties in both urban and rural areas.

Between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2013, the public submitted 305 complaints regarding problem properties province-wide, of which SCAN resolved 268. This includes seven Community Safety Orders levied against problem properties.

Albertans who suspect illegal activity is occurring at a property in their neighbourhood can contact SCAN online at www.alert-ab.ca/scan or toll-free at 1-866-960-SCAN (7226). All complaints are confidential. Residents are reminded never to investigate suspected problem properties on their own.

Made up of Alberta Sheriffs, SCAN is an ALERT team established and funded by the Government of Alberta to bring together the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources to tackle serious and organized crime. Nearly 400 municipal police, RCMP and sheriffs work for ALERT.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Chip Sawchuk
SCAN North Manager
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3430 (desk)
780-699-8496 (cell)

Candace Cook
Communications
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3015