The Regina Police Service (RPS) is the primary police service for the city of Regina, Saskatchewan and holds both municipal and provincial jurisdiction. Formed in 1892, it employs 347 sworn officers and 139 unsworn employees. The current chief of police is Farooq Hassan Sheikh.[1] Its activities are governed based on The Police Act, 1990 and The Municipal Police Discipline Regulations, 1991.[2]
The RPS can be traced back to 1892 when the city of Regina appointed James Williams to serve as the first town constable.[4] In 1903, R.J. Harwood was appointed as the first Chief Constable, abolishing the town constable position.[4]
In 1931, the first RPS police station was built in Regina by Harold Dawson in an Art Deco style.[4] The service was originally based in City Hall before they moved to the basement of Alexandra School.[4] In 1953, the RPS Headquarters Building at 1770 Halifax Street (turned to the Municipal Justice Building) was expanded in response to demand for more space.[4] In 1962, Smith & Wesson revolvers were issued to the RPS to replace the Colt and Webley revolvers.[4]
In July 2012, the RPS adopted a new coat of arms with the term Vigilius Genus (A Most Vigilant Breed) used to replace Century of Service, which was adopted in 1992.[6]
In December 2015, the Municipal Justice Building was closed off to be demolished and sold.[7]
In December 2017, the RPS has considered purchasing an armored tactical vehicle.[8] In January 2018, the Regina City Council announced that they are considering the budget proposal with funding for a tactical rescue vehicle.[9]
In June 2023, the news RPS Headquarters was unveiled in a ceremony, located at 1717 Saskatchewan Dr.[10]
In April 2024, the RPS created the Alternate Response Officers (AROS) program for public safety events, enforce bylaws, assist in protecting crime scenes and transport arrested persons, allowing armed officers to be freed up.[11] They are appointed as special constables.[11]
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