The provincial government and City of Moncton have announced the creation of a community safety officer pilot program aimed at alleviating increasing public safety pressures. 

“We know that Codiac Regional RCMP face increasing demand for service, and police resources are often dispatched to high-risk incidents and criminal investigations,” says Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin. “We have been working closely with the City of Moncton to ensure certain public safety concerns receive more attention, and we are pleased to help them get this program rolling.” 

Under the pilot program, municipal by-law enforcement officers will be appointed as special constables under the Police Act. 

“This special constable designation is something we have been advocating for, and we are eager to see this service put in place,” says Moncton Mayor Shawn Crossman. “Public safety is Council’s number one priority, and this initiative represents a real investment in creating a safer and more secure community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.” 

Special constables will not replace police officers and will not be responsible for criminal investigations or emergency response.  

Their role will include: 

• community engagement 

• public safety patrols 

• encampment response 

• trespass enforcement 

• public education 

• conflict resolution 

• referrals to social service agencies 

• enforcement of specified provincial statutes and municipal by-laws 

Officers designated as special constables must have completed a two-year police and corrections foundation program or have previous policing experience and will require additional training, such as completion of the Atlantic Police Academy special constable program, use-of-force certification, crisis intervention, and powers of arrest and detention. 

Under this model, the City will be responsible for hiring, training, operating the program, and continuing to work closely with Codiac RCMP as they do today. The Department of Justice and Public Safety will provide provincial oversight through regular check-ins and audits. 

The community safety officer program is expected to be operational early next year. Once established, it will be accessible through the City’s 24/7 dispatch line at 506-853-3333.