SASKATOON POLICEASSOCIATION Finding Future Officers in Saskatoon's Alternative Response Officers With the present political and economic climate daunting for young people, it has become increasingly difficult to recruit and retain individuals interested in entering the world of policing in Saskatchewan. Declining applicant numbers combined with officers being “burned out” from the job has put a strain on police agencies across the province. In 2021, the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) began an Alternative Response program aimed at assigning Special Constables to unconventional roles in the public. To reduce the load on regular police officers, the Alternative Response Officer (ARO) was trained to handle non-emergent and non-violent calls for service, along with other supporting jobs that would not require a fully equipped and armed police officer. AROs begin with training at the SPS headquarters. ARO recruits undergo a five-week in-house program designed to give a diverse skill set tailored to meet the demands of alternative response in policing, along with several weeks in the field to further sharpen their new training. Recruits learn de-escalation techniques to help them foster sensitivity and professionalism while engaging with the community. AROs emerge from their training equipped to navigate the complexities of their new role with confidence and compassion. AROs are often seen now on the downtown streets of Saskatoon engaging with the public, enforcing municipal and provincial statutes, and providing a uniformed presence. AROs also complete other tasks such as subject transports, personnel relief, and attendance at community events. Beyond the uniform, the SPS ARO program also offers aspiring law enforcement professionals an opportunity to gain firsthand experience and insight into the diverse facets of policing. For those aspiring to join the ranks of the Saskatoon Police Service, participation in the ARO program serves as a gateway, providing a tangible glimpse into the realities of police work while fostering a deeper understanding of the pivotal role played by community engagement and proactive intervention in crime prevention. The ARO program serves as a springboard for individuals seeking to pursue a career as constables within the service. By immersing themselves in daily operations and actively participating in community outreach initiatives, aspiring candidates not only hone their skills but also demonstrate their commitment to upholding the values of service, integrity, and accountability that are some of the main tenets of law enforcement. After observing an ARO in their limited capacity, SPS may then be able to draw personnel to accept the further challenge of becoming a police officer. Having the chance to see how they handle their present role gives the service invaluable exposure to what they have for the future. If selected, recruits attend the Saskatchewan Police College in Regina, SK where they complete a 20week course, and months of in-field training as a patrol constable. By having prior exposure and training before heading to college, candidates who moved from the ranks of the ARO program have a leg up on the competition. Exposure and knowledge lead to their success, provide the Saskatoon Police Service with a solid officer, and offer the people of Saskatoon a better return on their investment in policing their streets. Special Constables in the ARO program are not fully sworn police officers but appointed by the Province of Saskatchewan to serve their communities. While their training prepares them to competently carry out their assigned duties, it does not provide them with the tools or training of a fully trained and equipped police officer. A special constable’s equipment and training will never be able to deal with the complexities and unpredictability of some of the most vulnerable and difficult problems that most police officers encounter daily. However, the AROs in Saskatoon fill an important role in policing. They shoulder their load in their own unique way and help to keep our city safe. Along the way, as they learn and gain experience, these special constables grow to become part of the future of policing in our city. Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 41
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