Pubdate: Mon, 20 Oct 2008
Source: Wetaskiwin Times Advertiser (CN AB)
Copyright: 2008 Wetaskiwin Times Advertiser
Contact:  http://www.wetaskiwintimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2179

NEW LEGISLATION TARGETS ILLEGAL PROPERTIES

Safer Communities And Neighborhoods Act Provides Tool To Improve
Safety

Albertans now have a new tool to combat illegal activities associated
with gangs, drugs and prostitution in their neighbourhoods.

The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) Act, which comes into
force October 1, creates a new sheriffs' unit to investigate public
complaints about properties used for illegal activities and, if
necessary, close those properties for up to 90 days.

"The SCAN investigative unit gives Albertans another tool to help deal
with the crime and disturbances that devastate our neighbourhoods,"
said Fred Lindsay, Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security.

"The act helps engage community members as partners with government
and law enforcement in creating safe and secure communities."

SCAN responds to a recommendation from the Crime Reduction and Safe
Communities Task Force Report to adopt the act and make communities
safer.

"Alberta's communities may be growing and changing, but they still
maintain the fundamental principles that make Albertans who and what
they are -caring, respectful citizens who take pride in their
communities. This Act gives Alberta communities one more tool to fight
crime and promote quality of life," said Alison Redford, Minister of
Justice and Attorney General.

Modeled after similar civil legislation in Saskatchewan, the act
enables the SCAN investigative unit to mediate, investigate or apply
to the courts for a Community Safety Order that requires individuals
to vacate and/or close the property. Any criminal activity uncovered
when dealing with these properties will be turned over to the police
to investigate.

For the first year, two SCAN teams will serve the province with a
northern team based in Edmonton and a southern one based in Calgary.

In subsequent years regional offices may be set up in smaller centres
throughout the province.

Landlords or neighbours who are concerned tenants or residents may be
using property for illegal activities that negatively affect the
health, safety and security of a neighbourhood or community can report
a problem property by phoning the SCAN unit's toll-free number at
1-866-960-SCAN (1-866-960-7226).
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin