The RNC has moved into small communities outside Corner Brook. Here's how it's going so far
CBC
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary started patrolling more than 14 new towns and communities on the island's west coast at the start of the summer.
Humber Arm South Mayor Erica Humber-Shears has been liking what she sees: police cars on patrol, daily.
"I have yet to go in my vehicle to go anywhere in this town or go to Corner Brook and not see a RNC vehicle somewhere along my travels," said Humber-Shears.
The RCMP used to cover communities along the Bay of Islands, the North Shore and towns like Pasadena. Starting in February, the provincial police force gradually started to take over the entire area.
The RNC won't say how many new officers were needed for the expansion, which covers hundreds of kilometres, citing safety concerns.
But Insp. Amy Sharpe of the Corner Brook regional office says the force consulted each community and town about the move and so far, most people are pleased.
Sharpe said patrol officers are coming back to the station with smiles on their faces after making connections with community leaders and residents in these sometimes rural areas.
"With the rollout, this was new, and a new area for us. We haven't had an expansion for quite some time," Sharpe said.
"So to get positive feedback and be a part of the Corner Brook region has been really good."
Humber-Shears says she felt apprehensive about the change, at first. Humber Arm South, and all the small communities within the area, had a good relationship with the RCMP.
The RCMP say they will continue to maintain a presence in western Newfoundland. There is a detachment in Corner Brook with specialized services and the RNC/RCMP joint forces operation.
Since the switch earlier this summer, Humber-Shears has noticed police zeroing in on areas prone to break-ins. She said random patrol visits bring down speeding and drug trafficking.
"Visibility is important, I feel," she said. "It does cut down on potential crime activity. If the police are showing up at random places at random times, those that may be enticed to do a criminal act may think twice about it, you know. So the increased police presence is very welcomed."
In downtown Corner Brook, it's not unusual to see no marked RNC vehicles in the station's parking lot.
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