Media report illustrates risks taken by AUPE peace officers to protect public
EDMONTON – Media reports yesterday about the activities of a high-risk convict illustrate the challenges faced and risks taken daily by AUPE Correctional Officers, Sheriffs and other peace officers to protect the public, says AUPE President Doug Knight.
“We only see this kind of eye-opening report in the media from time to time, but it really puts into perspective what our members in Local 003 have to deal with daily to protect the public,” Knight said.
“Those of us who work with and admire our members who serve as peace officers know that these kinds of activities by people in custody are not at all uncommon,” Knight said.
The Edmonton Sun reported that while being held at the Edmonton Remand Centre the inmate has started fires in his cell, urinated on the floor, thrown feces at other inmates, flooded his cell, regularly spat at guards, and assaulted two guards by punching them in the face.
The Sun also reported that the man, who is Hepatitis C positive, has in the past been sentenced to serve time for spitting blood in the face of a courthouse sheriff.
“Every day, AUPE members in Correctional facilities and the justice system put their lives in danger to protect the people of Alberta, and we need to recognize that and honour them for what they do on our behalf,” he concluded.
“We need to keep this in mind when we hear wild accusations made about peace officers, as has happened in this case,” he said.
AUPE represents peace officers who serve in a several important capacities — including Public Protection Branch Officers, Forest Officers, Probation Officers, Correctional Peace Officers, Community Corrections Officers, Fish and Wildlife Officers, Parks Officers, Transport Officers and Legislative Security Officers.
AUPE Locals 003 and 005 represent the bulk of the peace officers who are members of the union.
For more information, contact:
Doug Knight, President, AUPE, 780-930-3301 or 780-265-6655 (cellular phone)
David Climenhaga, Communications Director, AUPE, 780-930-3311 or 780-717-2943 (cellular phone)