Pubdate: Mon, 12 Jun 2006 Source: Meridian Booster (CN AB) Copyright: 2006, The Lloydminster Meridian Booster Contact: http://www.meridianbooster.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1590 Author: John B. Spigott Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?188 (Outlaw Bikers) ORGANIZED CRIME TAKES HOLD IN THE MIDWEST Lloydminster Meridian Booster -- A recent report released by Criminal Intelligence Service Alberta says the Hell's Angels and other organized crime groups are expanding into Alberta, including Lloydminster. "Several new organized crime groups have been reported in the Eastern Alberta district, one based in Fort McMurray and one operating in the east central area of the province between Lloydminster and Provost," said the report. "Both are primarily street-level drug distribution groups and have demonstrated violence and intimidation to defend their drug markets and collect drug debts." According to their website, the CISA exists to combat the spread of organized crime through areas such as intelligence sharing, strategic analysis, operational support and training. The head of the Lloydminster RCMP acknowledges the presence of organized crime in the Border City, and points out that it's on the radar of the RCMP and is something they are monitoring. "Organized crime is everywhere because illegal substances are everywhere and that's what they do," said Sgt. Ken Marchand. "We have had influences in Lloydminster from a group south of the city by Provost, and it is something we are concerned about." - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom