Southwest Nova’s new RCMP officer-in-charge is touring the area.
Superintendent Jason Popik is overseeing 16 detachments from Windsor, down to Yarmouth and back up to Chester.
He says he’s been on the job for three weeks, but has had great conversations in creating a unified approach.
“I’m looking for operational readiness and excellence, and I’m looking for innovation as it pertains to modernization of enabling processes and technologies,” said Supt. Popik.
This year, more RCMP resources were sent to Clare to investigate a number of violent incidents like arson and gunshots.
Supt. Popik says they’re looking at more resources on supporting the community and building relationships with citizens.
“How do we get the community feeling safe? Safety is very much perceptual as it is physical. If people are feeling safe, they’ll walk outside more and the community is vibrant.”
He says they’re bringing in a dedicated team that addresses those issues, and balances the need for patrol.
Supt. Popik adds he met with MLA Ronnie LeBlanc and understands the concerns of the community.
He adds Sgt. Jeff LeBlanc at the Meteghan detachment is doing a great job, and they’ll look to continue supplementing the area.
