McLennan RCMP officers were busier in 2025 as reports of crime in the Smoky River region increased from 2024.
Serving the wide region around McLennan and Falher, police responded to 1,738 calls in 2025, up from 1,548 in 2025, says Const. Steven Struthers, serving as a supervisor for the McLennan detachment.
“The main concern for the McLennan RCMP has been the increase in property crime that we saw in 2024, that being theft of all kinds, as well as break-and-enters and other rural crime,” Struthers says.
He adds local police are stepping up efforts to curb the crime.
“McLennan RCMP has made it a priority to check on repeat offenders that have conditions on house arrest or timed curfews on a daily basis,” Struthers says.
“The hope is that we prevent further crime happening because we are putting manpower into checking on those individuals who have been known to commit those crimes.”
Officers are also committed to be more present in the community, attending events to engage with people.
“The hope is that this creates open communication citizens have with the police as well as more confidence in police,” Struthers says.
It has made a big difference, he says.
“Due to increased community relations and putting more emphasis on checking on repeat offenders, we have seen a drop in the volume of property-related crime,” Struthers says.
Incidents of break- and-enter, mental health- related calls and motor vehicle collisions were the top three calls in 2025. All increased from the previous year.
“Motor vehicle collisions increased significantly due to the amount of heavy snowfall in December and freezing rain,” Struthers says.
Theft of property over $5,000 and under $5,000 were also prominent, he notes.
To help police solve crimes, police recommend people install surveillance cameras on their properties.
“We advise residents – especially those living in rural areas – to get cameras on their properties,” Struthers says.
“They help to deter crime from happening and in the event that a crime does occur, they help in gathering evidence to solve that crime.”
Police value reports of calls from residents.
“McLennan RCMP thanks the community for being supporting and calling in incidents when they occur even though they may seem small,” Struthers says.
“This helps the RCMP, even if it may seem insignificant.
“We encourage all community members to continue to call and communicate with members of McLennan RCMP.”
To report criminal or suspicious activity, please phone McLennan RCMP at (780) 324-3061 or phone CrimeStoppers at (1-800) 222-TIPS (8477).
Richard Froese
South Peace News