Problem property in Edson ordered closed after successful SCAN investigation

September 24, 2012

Edmonton…A problem home in Edson has been ordered closed and vacated until December 19 following an investigation by ALERT’s Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit.

The investigation started in June 2012 following complaints about suspected drug activity at a residence at
633 – 53 Street in Edson. Working with SCAN, Edson RCMP executed a search warrant at the home in June that led to the drug trafficking charges against two people following the seizure of marihuana, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and cash.

SCAN was successful in obtaining a Community Safety Order (CSO) in mid-September. During the 86-day closure period, the owner must vacate the house and the property will be secured, including the installation of a fence around the perimeter.

The CSO will remain in effect until September of 2013, during which time the owner must receive approval from the SCAN unit before renting out any room in the property to a tenant. The prospective tenant must complete a written application, provide references, and enter into a written tenancy agreement.

Throughout this investigation, SCAN worked closely with the Edson RCMP Detachment. This property has been a problem for police for several years. This is the second CSO levied against this property, as a previous SCAN investigation on this property resulted in a CSO in March of 2010. At that time, the owner and his two tenants were permitted to stay at the property, but no visitors were allowed.

“SCAN followed up after the first CSO and the activity had ceased,” said SCAN Investigator Enio Perizzolo. “We responded to these new resident complaints quickly by opening an investigation, and we are hopeful that the results of this closure will be long-term.”

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.

“In this case, residents were insistent that they would not tolerate this kind of activity in their neighbourhood and reported it to SCAN,” continued Investigator Enio Perizzolo. “We want to remind residents that they really can help keep their community safe. Reporting suspicious activity is the first step.”

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. Over 400 municipal police, RCMP and sheriffs work for ALERT.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Enio Perizzolo
SCAN North Investigator
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-777-0343

Jill Baird
Communications
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3028