The history of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) dates back to 1892. The first police association in the city was established to address a prolonged conflict between Edmonton and Strathcona authorities over the relocation of the Dominion Land Office. Edmonton residents were opposed, and it was the police who ultimately resolved the tension. Learn more about the origins of Edmonton’s first municipal police force and other fascinating facts on edmonton1.one.
The Beginnings
On June 20, 1892, the city council convened to discuss potential unrest in Edmonton. The federal government was considering relocating the Dominion Land Office to Strathcona, sparking protests among Edmonton residents. Concerned about their inability to manage the angry crowds, the government passed and enacted Bylaw No. 15. This ordinance mandated the appointment of two police squads, each with five officers, to maintain order in the city. Thus, the municipal police assumed duties previously handled by the North-West Mounted Police.
By 1900, Edmonton’s police force consisted of five constables. After World War I, increasing protests and demonstrations in Edmonton prompted the police to advocate for unionization.
Growth and Interesting Facts
Starting in 1905, Edmonton’s rapid growth as Alberta became a province necessitated hiring more constables. By 1909, the city had 25 officers, and by 1911, that number had risen to 44. Notable milestones include:
- Alex Decoteau: In 1911, he became the first Indigenous officer in Canada’s municipal police force.
- Annie Jackson: In 1912, she became the first female constable in Canadian history.
- First Aerial Pursuit: In 1919, Edmonton police used an airplane to chase John Larsen, a murderer of Constable William Nixon. Wop May piloted the aircraft, marking the first use of aviation by police in Canada.
Significant advancements occurred in 1942 with the establishment of Edmonton’s first street patrols. By the 1960s, Edmonton merged with the city of Beverly, and the Jasper Place Police Department joined forces with the Edmonton Police Service.
In 1967, Norm Koch became president of the Edmonton Police Association, introducing numerous acts and regulations to improve police work. Koch also organized the Western Canada Police Association, uniting major provincial associations.
The Edmonton Police in the 21st Century
The Edmonton Police Service ranks as the fourth-largest municipal force in North America. It operates across the city, except for municipalities with their own police services.
As of 2022, EPS employs over 4,000 men and women. Their duties include patrolling provincial roads, conducting criminal investigations, and bringing offenders to justice. Interestingly, the bulk of police work focuses on enforcing traffic regulations and maintaining public order, with only 20% of time spent on crime-fighting.