Rimbey Crime Watch active in town and rural community

The eyes and ears of Rimbey law enforcement officers are especially tuned in to crooks who may not otherwise get caught, thanks to a local organization who uses their own eyes and ears to observe and report suspicious activity.

The Rimbey and District Crime Watch Association does its part to let the RCMP know of any suspicious activity in the area.

“We are the eyes and ears of the community,’ said president Barb Olsen. Members have a fan out system so they are notified of lawless activity such as car theft.

“We try and assist them in whatever way we can,” she added. “We have rural and town members, including businesses. And all members have signs.”

Olsen said the Rimbey and District Crime Watch Association held its annual meeting and supper Jan. 25 at the Leedale Hall with about 75 people in attendance.

Guest speaker Const. Donavan Gulak of Red Deer, who spoke on motor vehicle collision reconstruction, gave an informative and humorous talk during the meeting.

A framed RCMP picture was presented to Dave Keya, who retired from the board after many years of service. A silent auction was held during the evening with several local businesses and individuals contributing. Rimbey Co-op donated pastries that were served at the conclusion of the meeting.

Rimbey Sgt. Mark Grooves said the crime watch association plays a significant role in helping to keep the town and surrounding area safe.

“Rimbey’s detachment jurisdiction is nearly 3,000 kilometres and stretches from the Fifth Meridian to all the way west to the North Saskatchewan River, covering three counties. Having an extra set of eyes and ears throughout the jurisdiction is of great benefit to us and helps us to keep Rimbey a safe place to live.”

Groves said during the last year the Rural Crime Watch association has helped police remove numerous impaired drivers off the road, recover numerous stolen items such as vehicles and property, and have also assisted with drug investigations.

Rimbey and District Crime Watch Association board executive is president Barb Olsen, vice-president Bonnie Muzylouski, secretary Linda Campbell, and treasurer Pat Muddle.

Board members are Allan Muddle, Herman Wegmann, Marianne Valstar, Paul Rogers, (Gull Lake North Citizens on Patrol), Keith Beebe (Ponoka County representative) and new members Nick and Christine Peerman.