A member of the St. Paul RCMP detachment has been suspended and is facing several child pornography-related charges following an investigation from the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit  

ALERT officials say the investigation into 33-year-old Evan Peacock started in November 2023, when the accused allegedly uploaded a pair of what is being described as videos depicting child sexual exploitation to a social media platform. They were tipped off about the alleged upload from the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Center. The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at the accused's home, where authorities say evidence was seized, with a forensic investigation set to be conducted on the devices seized by police.  

Authorities say Peacock’s identity was only learned earlier this month, which prompted an “expeditious” effort to make an arrest. 

In a statement, St. Paul Detachment NCO Bobby Burgess says the detachment personnel are shocked and disappointed by these allegations. 

“Furthermore, our members are obviously concerned with the possible public perception and confidence of our Detachment and the RCMP following such news,” he says. 

"I assure you this isn’t a reflection of our Detachment membership as a whole, and these allegations are against a single person.” 

Burgess says they were unaware of an investigation into the officer's alleged conduct until he was being processed in a neighboring detachment on Thursday morning. 

Peacock is facing two counts of possession of child pornography, distributing child pornography, and accessing child pornography. 

ICE unit members say while the investigation and charges are related to online offences, the nature of the suspect’s employment placed him in a position of trust and authority. Officials are asking anyone with information about this case to come forward and contact the police.  

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As registration for farms and ranches to participate in the 2024 edition of Alberta Open Farm Days ends on April 30th, excitement is mounting for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of agriculture. This year, the theme chosen is the “Year of the Alpaca” shining a spotlight on these flurry creatures that have become an integral part of Alberta’s thriving fibre industry.  

Alberta Open Farm Days is an annual two-day event that offers Albertans a unique opportunity to connect with the agricultural community, learn about where their food comes from, and engage in on-farm experiences. With over 130 host farms participating in 2023 and thousands of visitors, the event continues to grow in popularity each year.  

Tim Carson, CEO of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s event stating, “This will be our 13th year of Alberta Open Farm Days, and the numbers of participants have continued to grow. Last year, we had just over 130 host farms. So, the diversity of those participants has also continued to grow, which is a great sign that we’re going down the right path.”  

This year’s spotlight on alpacas highlights their significance in Alberta's agricultural landscape. Carson explained “Alpacas are a relatively new species to Alberta farms, arriving here in the 1980s. Since then, the alpaca population has grown to 28,500 in Canada, with 40 percent of those animals in Alberta.”  

Beyond their undeniable cuteness, alpacas play a vital role in Alberta’s fibre industry, alongside other products such as goats' wool, sheep wool, and hemp. With over 430 alpaca farms in Alberta alone, these animals have become essential to the province's agricultural tapestry.  

Carson emphasized the educational aspect of Open Farm Days stating, “We want to showcase the diversity of agriculture, so as long as you have a significant tie to the agriculture or Agri-tourism industry, Open Farm Days is an AG education program as much as it is a tourism program.”  

In addition to highlighting the alpaca industry, Open Farm Days offers a wide range of experiences, from petting zoos to wineries, giving visitors a comprehensive look at Alberta’s agricultural sector. Carson encouraged attendees to explore multiple farms, saying, “Take an entire day, take a cooler, take your wallet. Get up there and experience what agriculture this great province has to offer.”  

The economic impact of Open Farm Days is significant, with on-farm sales reaching nearly $300,000 during the 2023 weekends alone. Since its inception, the event has generated over $1.4 million in on-farm sales, injecting vital funds into rural economies across Alberta.  

As Alberta Open Farm Dyas approaches on August 17 and 18, anticipation is building for another unforgettable celebration of agriculture, food, and community. With the Year of the Alpaca as its theme, this year's event promises to be both educational and entertaining showcasing the best of Alberta's agricultural heritage.  

Registration is open until April 30th at Alberta Open Farm Days | Farm Tours, Culinary Experiences for those interested in participating as host farms or learning more about the event.

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Indigenous communities in Alberta are advocating for reallocating unused federal funds from the Site Rehabilitation Program to support essential land stewardship and cleanup initiatives.  

Since its inception in May 202, the Site Rehabilitation Program has successfully closed and reclaimed inactive sites, pipelines, and oil and gas infrastructure in collaboration with Alberta’s government and Indigenous partners.  

Despite its achievements, approximately $137 million of the allocated funds remain unused, prompting Indigenous leaders and Alberta’s government to urge the federal government to reconsider reallocating these funds for continued cleanup efforts on Indigenous lands.  

“Time is not on our side. We have a very limited land base and a growing population. We must do the necessary land stewardship immediately,” Chief Cory Thomas of Enoch Cree Nation emphasized.  

“The Site Rehabilitation Program is a tried, tested, and true vehicle for economic reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. We need flexibility from the federal government to continue this important work,” stated Rick Wilson, Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations.

Chiefs from Treaty 6,7, and 8 territories, along with the Indian Resource Council, emphasize the urgent need to maintain the momentum of the Site Rehabilitation Program and address environmental liabilities on Indigenous lands.  

“The Site Rehabilitation Program has provided meaningful job opportunities and work experience while reclaiming the land so the communities can use it again. This is why we need the surplus funds,” highlighted Stephen Buffalo, president and CEO of the Indian Resource Council of Canada.  

As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that the progress achieved through the Site Rehabilitation Program continues to benefit the environment and Indigenous communities across Alberta.  

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In support of the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association Fraud Prevention Month campaign, the Alberta RCMP is gearing up to educate Albertans on the various forms of fraudulent activity and how to protect themselves.

This month-long campaign, which focuses on different weekly themes, aims to raise awareness about the impact of fraud on communities. This week’s theme spotlights online scams and frauds, encompassing a range of deceptive practices, including romance scams, phishing emails, job scams, buy-and-sell fraud, lottery and prize scams, and impersonation scams.

To defend against these threats, the Alberta RCMP advises individuals to take several protective measures. Use strong and unique passwords for online accounts, become familiar with phishing emails' seven major red flags, and educate yourself on safeguarding your finances from cybercriminals by implementing secure banking and online transaction practices.

“As technology evolves, scammers are constantly devising new tactics to appear legitimate and deceive their targets. By empowering Canadians with knowledge on securing their accounts, devices, and digital connections, we can thwart these online threats,” stated Cpl. Sean Milne from the Alberta RCMP Provincial Financial Crime Team.

Should you suspect that you have fallen victim to fraud or are currently being targeted, the Alberta RCMP urges you to report the incident to your local law enforcement agency and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-88-495-8501. Also, cases of compromised personal or financial information should be promptly reported to your bank and credit card company.

Individuals are encouraged to visit the CAFC's scam webpage to gain further insight into various frauds and scams.

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Alberta’s government is stepping up its commitment to youth mental health by injecting an additional $1 million into the Youth Suicide Prevention Grant Program, pushing the total investment to over $4 million over the next two years.

Minister of Children and Family Services Searle Turton, emphasized the importance of supporting struggling youth stating, “Youth deserve to feel heard, supported, valued, and loved, especially when they are suffering.”

The program, which spans the entire province, focuses on aiding vulnerable youth populations and enhancing community-based suicide prevention initiatives. Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Dan Williams stressed the significance of ensuring access to prevention services, saying, “Anyone facing mental health challenges or thinking about suicide deserves to know help is available and recovery is possible.”

Since its inception in 2022, the grant program has directly supported nearly 927 youth, while over 1,100 individuals have been connected to mental health resources.

Vice President of the YMCA of Northern Alberta, Jackie McGowan, highlighted the program’s transformative impact, stating, “The work we have been able to accomplish at Y Mind Program thanks to our Youth Suicide Prevention Grant underscores the critical importance of investing in youth suicide prevention.”

Applications for the renewed program will commence on March 4, with grants being issued starting July 1. Community organizers are encouraged to apply before the April 15 deadline, to ensure continued support for youth mental health initiatives across Alberta.

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On February 24, at 5:52 p.m. Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek RCMP received a distressing report of an avalanche in the backcountry between Carbondale and Castle Mountain Ski Resort.

Upon investigation, it was revealed that at 1:00 p.m. two adults and two children were snowmobiling when the tragedy struck in the form of an avalanche. One of the males managed to escape with both children, but the second male was tragically buried in the snow.

Efforts to locate and rescue the missing male ensued immediately. On February 25, at 1:22 p.m. Pincher Creek RCMP, with assistance from Southwestern Alberta Regional Search and Rescue, a K9 and handler from Fernie Search and Rescue, and Alberta Conservation, successfully recovered and retrieved the body of the missing male. He has been identified as a 46-year-old from Magrath, Alberta.

The deceased has been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for further investigation.

The RCMP extends their deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.

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Alberta's top junior athletes, coaches, and spectators are eagerly anticipating the 25th Alberta Winter Games in 2026, set to take place in the M.D. of Bonnyville, City of Cold Lake, Town of Bonnyville, and the Village of Glendon. Athletes aged 11 to 16 will compete in various sports, including ringette, hockey, and speedskating, highlighting the province's rich athletic talent.

Minister of Tourism and Sport, Joseph Schow, expressed his support stating, “We are proud to support opportunities that celebrate the achievements of our young athletes, offering them a platform to compete and realize their athletic potential.”

Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville, Cold Lake, and St. Paul, affirmed the readiness of the host communities, noting, “Our exceptional recreation infrastructure and warm hospitality will leave athletes, coaches, parents, and technical officials with a desire to keep coming back.”

With preparations underway, the Alberta government has pledged an $820,000 operating grant to assist in covering essential expenses. Barry Kalinski, reeve of the M.D. of Bonnyville, emphasized the significance of collaboration among municipalities in hosting the games.

Leadership from the host municipalities, including Craig Copeland, mayor of the City of Cold Lake, and Elisa Brosseau, mayor of the town of Bonnyville, echoed their enthusiasm for showcasing the region's facilities and community spirit.

Nicholas Werstiuk, mayor of the Village of Glendon, expressed excitement for the event, stating, “We look forward to seeing athletes and their families from all over the province, making memories, achieving goals, receiving medals, and even possibly getting a picture next to the world’s largest perogy.”

The 2026 Alberta Winter Games will build upon the event’s legacy of excellence since 1976, reinforcing Alberta’s commitment to athletic development and community engagement.

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In a move towards greater transparency and accountability, RCMP officers in Alberta will commence field testing body-worn cameras along with a new digital evidence management system.

Starting in February, frontline members stationed in St. Paul, Grand Prairie, and Parkland County, Alta. will initiate the field-testing phase, which is expected to last 8 to 10 weeks. Similar field tests are also being conducted in RCMP detachments in Nova Scotia and Nunavut.

The adoption of body-worn cameras aims to foster trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve by providing an impartial record of interactions.

Mounted typically at the center of an officer's chest, the body-worn cameras will indicate recording status through a visible red light, providing transparency to the public.

This field test serves as the concluding phase of the procurement process and will guide the nationwide deployment of body-worn cameras and the digital evidence management system within the RCMP detachments. Successful completion of the field tests will confirm the selected contractor as the provider for the RCMP.

Upon completion of the field tests, a phased rollout is anticipated to occur nationally over the next 12 to 18 months. Ultimately, body-worn cameras and a digital evidence management system are poised to become standard equipment for general-duty frontline RCMP officers across the country.

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Alberta Health Services issued an announcement emphasizing the importance of regular cervical cancer screening for individuals aged 25 to 60 who are sexually active or have been in the past.

The recommended screening method, known as a Pap test or Pap smear, examines the cervix for any abnormal cells that would indicate the presence of cervical cancer. AHS stresses the significance of undergoing this screening regularly, ideally once every three years unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider.

According to AHS, consistent Pap tests and subsequent care can effectively prevent approximately 90% of cervical cancer cases. Early detection through Pap tests significantly enhances treatment outcomes, potentially saving lives.

AHS underscores the importance of undergoing Pap tests regardless of one’s health status or sexual history. Even individuals feeling healthy, with only one sexual partner, are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, or post-menopausal are urged to prioritize regular screening.

Notably, AHS highlighted that nearly all cases of cervical cancer stem from HPV infections, often asymptomatic, making regular screening imperative for early detection and intervention.

It is essential to note that while Pap tests are effective in detecting cervical abnormalities, they do not screen for other cancers or sexually transmitted infections.

For additional information on cervical cancer screening and resources, individuals are encouraged to visit screeningforlife.ca

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A new initiative invites Albertans to join a series of online workshops geared towards enhancing adults' coping abilities amidst life changes fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being. 

The Wellness Exchange workshops, initiated this month, are conducted in five weekly online sessions, each focusing on specific wellness-related topics. Participants can register for one or all of the five sessions, engaging in the workshops through a smartphone, tablet, or computer.  

The five workshops offered focus on problem-solving, positive activities, managing reactions, helpful thinking, and healthy connections.  

Those with inquiries about the Wellness Exchange or wanting to register can contact AHSWellnessExchange@ahs.ca or visit Addiction and Mental Health Wellness Exchange.

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Alberta Health services addresses concerns regarding the use of imported acetaminophen from Turkey during the previous winter. Health Canada approved its import, emphasizing no patients, including infants in neonatal intensive care, suffered injuries due to its usage.

The decision to discontinue the imported pain medication in NICUs stemmed from frontline staff identifying a higher risk of clogging feeding tubes due to increased viscosity. While termed “adverse reactions” these incidents did not result in injuries.

In healthcare instances such as the need for an unnecessary procedure, like replacing a feeding tube, are classified as adverse events. Misinterpretation of product packaging and labeling also falls under this category.

The Atabay product was used for approximately two months in AHS sites before reverting to the usual medication.

In early 2023, Canada faces challenges in the supply of children's analgesics, prompting proactive decisions to prevent a complete shortfall. Atabay, with Good Manufacturing Practice certification, became a crucial solution, ensuring a stable supply amid global shortages.

Atabay’s certification in the USA, Japan, Australia, and the European Union, along with its exclusive role as acetaminophen manufacturer in key regions, provided AHS with long-term assurance for their stick during a period of heightened demand and shortages. AHS reaffirms its commitment to patient safety and transparent communication in healthcare decisions.

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The top eight women curling teams will be in St. Paul at the end of January for the 2024 Sentinel Storage Alberta Scotties Tournament of Hearts.

The St. Paul Alberta Curling Club is putting the event on in partnership with the Town of St. Paul at the Clancy Richard Arena from January 24th to 28th.

Back in August, when it was announced the Scotties Tournament of Hearts was coming to St. Paul, Event Chair Troy Bohn said he was looking forward to how the event would showcase the "excitement and sense of community that curling brings to St. Paul."

“St. Paul has been behind several successful events from hockey championships to rodeos. I have every confidence that our town and our community will put on a show that will bring grassroots curling to centre stage.”

The full draw schedule and tickets can be found on the Alberta Scotties Tournament of Hearts website.

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In early 2024, Alberta is set to overhaul its electricity market and regulatory framework due to a series of reviews. While the province's power grid usually operates in the background, recent challenges in 2023, including escalating consumer bills and grid instability, prompted a freeze on renewable energy project approvals and a thorough market review.

Not all reports due in 2024 will be public, but Utilities and Affordability Minister Nathan Neudorf highlights their crucial role in ensuring affordable and reliable power amid the global shift to cleaner energy. The reviews, expected to conclude by February 1, aim to guide the development of a future power grid that balances the transition to cleaner power with affordability.

The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) and Market Surveillance Administrator are tasked with recommending incentives and legislative changes to enhance grid reliability, including nuclear, hydrogen, energy storage, and hydro solutions. The accelerated timeline, surprising to experts, may lead to significant changes in the power market, ranging from tweaks to a potential move towards re-regulation.

Alberta's unique private-sector-driven power market lacks a centralized planning mechanism, prompting discussions about potential government control. Premier Danielle Smith contemplates establishing a Crown corporation if the market falls short in meeting long-term baseload power needs. Despite reforms targeting long-term reliability and price stability in 2024, immediate impacts on lower power prices are expected in March due to increased natural gas-fired power.

Simultaneously, Alberta is reassessing transmission-system policies to align with emerging technologies and emission reduction goals. Diverse perspectives beyond natural gas providers must be considered to navigate the evolving energy landscape. The government's commitment to a natural gas-dependent grid has led to conflicts with federal clean electricity regulations, adding complexity to the energy policy landscape.

In 2023, Alberta witnessed significant growth in renewable energy capacity, adding more projects than any other province or territory. However, a temporary halt on renewable project approvals raised industry concerns, leading to a review by the Alberta Utilities Commission. The AUC's report, due by the end of March, is expected to bring about changes reshaping Alberta's renewables landscape in 2024 and beyond.

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Albertans are urged to nominate exceptional community members, leaders, and innovators for the prestigious Alberta Order of Excellence, the highest honour.

Since 1979, 212 outstanding individuals, including Olympians, scientists, volunteers, business leaders, and artists, have received this recognition for their lasting contributions.

Nominations are accepter year-round, but for consideration this year, submissions must be received by February 15. Eligible nominees must be Canadian citizens residing in Alberta who can attend the investiture ceremony. Self-nominations, spouses, and immediate family members are ineligible.

Visit the Alberta Order of Excellence website for nomination guidelines, forms, and past inductee biographies. For more information you can contact 780-449-0517.

This is an opportunity for Albertans to honour those who have made significant impacts, shaping and enriching the province. Recognizing excellence across diverse fields, the Alberta Order of Excellence celebrates individuals who have left a lasting legacy.

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People across Alberta have celebrated the joy of new beginnings as three cities welcome the firstborns of the year.

In Edmonton, Isle Noelle Falk entered the world at midnight at Grey Nuns Community Hospital, becoming the first baby born in the province in 2024, weighing in at a healthy 10lbs 0oz.

Laura Falk, expressing her excitement, proudly shared, “We weren't expecting January 1 as I was induced on December 29. It’s crazy she hung on for so long. We are hoping for 123123 and were surprised that she was born at midnight. Either way, it's a special day. “

The New Year’s baby, Marianthi, entered Foothills Medical Centre at 12:25 am in Calgary. Chris and Marina Qiro, pleasantly surprised by the timely arrival and proudly welcomed a healthy baby girl weighing 6lbs 5oz after a brief and easy labor.

“We were at a New Year’s Eve party when my wife started feeling pain around 9 pm,” shared Chris. “We went to the hospital, dressed up, and watched the fireworks at midnight from our room. A few minutes later, our daughter was born – it was the best gift ever!”

In Red Deer, the New Year’s baby, Bailee, joined the world at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre at 3:11 am. Daughter to parents Victoria Dorie and Scott Beardy, Bailee weighed 7lbs and 9oz.

“We weren’t sure if she would be a New Year's baby when I went into labor,” explained mom Victoria. “There were others in labor around the same time, so it was a bit of a surprise to be told we had the first of the new year here.”

As we celebrate the arrival of these New Year’s babies, we extend wishes for health, and happiness to all the families welcoming their bundles of joy. May the coming year bring them immeasurable pleasure and memorable moments.

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The Alberta RCMP, responding to more than double the cases recorded in all of 2022, has witnessed a distressing surge in drug overdoses.

This alarming trend comprises a significant rise in suspected fentanyl overdoses with a high fatality rate. Reflecting the severity of the situation, naloxone deployments have increased by 24 percent in 2023. From January to August 2023, Alberta recorded 1262 opioid-related deaths, marking a worrisome increase of 255 compared to the same period in the previous year.

The perilous practice of cutting fentanyl is linking many of these overdoses. Individuals are mixing fentanyl with easily accessible and inexpensive substances to create a cheaper high, diminishing the effectiveness of naloxone. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Alberta RCMP issues a public warning, highlighting the unpredictable nature of street drugs.

The RCMP emphasizes the signs of a fentanyl overdose, including slow breathing, pinpoint pupils, muscle stiffness, seizures, and unconsciousness. To enhance safety, they advise the public to avoid using drugs alone, have someone check on them, be aware of overdose symptoms, carry a naloxone kit, and consider using the Digital Overdose Response System app.

The RCMP is actively collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to curb both domestic production and importation of fentanyl. Recent federal regulations classify certain chemicals as fentanyl precursors, enabling law enforcement to act against the illegal importation, distribution, and use of these chemicals.

The public is encouraged to report any information about illegal fentanyl activity to local police or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at Helpline 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.p3tips.com.

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In a move to support the expanding cannabis market, Alberta’s government is simplifying regulations for retailers, emphasizing health and safety. Effective January 31, 2024, these changes aim to cut red tape and enhance business flexibility in the competitive landscape.

Since the legalization of cannabis five years ago, Alberta’s cannabis market has witnessed exponential growth. To ensure the industry’s continued success and the protection of consumers, the government is conducting a comprehensive review to identify strengths, areas for improvement, and redundancies within the current regulatory framework.

Among the fundamental changes set to come into force are temporary sales locations, flexible storage solutions, and sales and transfers.

Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction expressed the government's commitment to finding the right balance between supporting businesses and ensuring public safety. “These changes are the result of our latest work to help curb the illegal cannabis industry and continue providing choices Albertans can trust,” he stated.

It is crucial to note that all existing consumption and youth access restrictions will remain unchanged. The government hopes that these regulatory adjustments will empower legal cannabis retailers, reduce barriers, and further diminish the influence of the illegal market by providing a competitive edge. Additionally, businesses are expected to benefit from time and cost savings due to increased flexibility in managing merchandise.

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The provincial government rejected an amendment that would make its referendum results on exiting the Canada Pension Plan binding

The United Conservative government used its majority to vote down the New Democratic Party’s amendment to Bill 2 that aimed to enforce adherence to referendum outcomes.

Finance Minister Nate Horner dismissed the amendment as "vague, confusing, and repetitive," and reiterated the government's commitment to respecting Albertans' choices in a referendum, without limiting future government decisions

Another voted-down NDP amendment aimed to dedicate income from the proposed Alberta pension plan to prevent diversion for political projects. The UCP bill would mandate the investment of funds transferred from the CPP into an Alberta pension plan but does not address the fate of income generated from the plan.

As the legislative proceedings advance to the committee of the whole stage before potential final reading. The opposition intending to vote against the bill, introduces amendments to address perceived shortcomings.

Faced with a potential filibuster, Government House Leader Joseph Schow swiftly passed a motion imposing a one-hour time limit on future debates over amendments.

The pension debate originated from Premier Smith's call for consultations based on a government report suggesting Alberta's entitlement to 53 per cent f the entire CPP fund. Critics question this calculation and the federal government warns of potential risks to CPP stability if Alberta were to withdraw.

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Both Alberta and Saskatchewan are fuming with the federal environment minister over proposals to shut off methane releases from oil and gas sites by 2030.

The new targets seek to cut energy industry burn-offs by at least 75 percent over 2012 levels by 2030.

The present rules aim for a 40 to 45 percent reduction by 2025.

Several Canadian delegations including the federal government and provincial leaders are currently in Dubai for the COP28 global climate meeting.

Cutting methane is viewed as one way to reduce global warming by limiting its ability to trap heat.

The federal environment minister Steven Guilbeault estimates it will cost the industry about $15 billion to implement the regulations between 2027 to 2040 while keeping about 200 million tonnes of greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere over the period.

The Alberta premier is against a total ban on flaring citing costs, and its need as an industry health and safety practice. Saskatchewan officials see the move as the federal government stepping on provincial jurisdiction.

Files from G. Lampow - Vista Radio.

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