COP APPLAUDS INITIATIVE

Drug problems are prevalent in almost all communities in Alberta, says
High Prairie Citizens on Patrol coordinator Brian Holmberg.

Shortly before stepping down at COP's May 11 meeting, Holmberg
addressed the group in their efforts to curb crime.

"We know we have a drug problem," he says. "Everyone has. Taber, Cold
Lake, Olds -it's all over. It's not just here."

High Prairie Staff Sgt. Mike Pierson says the recent commitment from
Peavine Metis Settlement, the M.D. of Big Lakes and Town of High
Prairie will help.

Three more undercover police officers will be stationed at the High
Prairie detachment to specifically fight drug crimes.

"One hundred per cent all of the time," says Pierson.

He adds the extra officers will also free up the time of others to do
even more enforcement.

High Prairie Mayor John Brodrick who attended the meeting as a COP
volunteer, adds that the contributing governments will be working with
the undercover officers in developing a plan to fight drug related
criminal activity.