The Ridge Meadows RCMP will soon have 15 new auxiliary constables to help keep local streets safe. The volunteers are currently undergoing training to join the Ridge Meadows RCMP auxiliary ranks, and will graduate in June upon completing the mandatory provincial exams.
“All of our volunteers give so much to our office and our community. This is especially true in regards to our auxiliary constables,” said Supt. Dave Walsh. “They partake in many of the events that take place, ensuring traffic is not affected and families can enjoy these events. They ride along with our regular patrol officers, which puts an extra pair of eyes on our streets for our focused patrols. They assist us in maintaining a presence in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows with foot patrols in areas that have experienced criminal behavior.”
While many auxiliary constables join the program out of a sense of community pride, many are interested in a career in policing. Three members of last year’s auxiliary class have gone on to become police officers, with two joining the RCMP and the third joining a municipal police force.
“It is excellent that three of our auxiliary constables are now moving on with policing careers,” Walsh said. “It is hoped that the new RCMP members will one day return to the Ridge Meadows detachment and continue to help us keep our citizens safe.”
Ridge Meadows RCMP have a variety of volunteer programs, including Citizens on Patrol, Speed Watch, Citizens Bike Patrol, as well as the Auxiliary Constable Program.
For more information on how to volunteer with the Ridge Meadows RCMP, visit the detachment website at ridgemeadows.rcmp.ca
