Property closed after residents express safety concerns

The problem property, at 12838 65 Street, was closed by SCAN team members on May 2. SCAN’s investigation was launched in August 2015 after a number of complaints from area residents about drug activity at the home.

“The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods unit with Sheriffs Branch of Alberta Justice and Solicitor General is doing valuable work to help keep Albertans safe.”

Throughout the investigation, SCAN witnessed drug activity taking place at the home and was able to obtain a Community Safety Order, which includes a closure of the property. The closure will take place for a period of 90 days, during which time the tenant is barred from entering or occupying the property, locks are changed and windows and doors are boarded up.

The property has been a problem spot for several years. In 2012, it was the scene of a drug-related homicide. Between August and November of 2015, searches of the property found a variety of drugs with street values of almost $17,000.

SCAN uses civil legislation to target problem properties around the province that are used for illegal purposes, such as prostitution, gang activity, drug use and drug trafficking. The SCAN team consists of Alberta Sheriffs who partnered with Edmonton Police Service on this investigation.

Quick facts

• Albertans who suspect illegal activity at a property in their neighbourhood can make a confidential complaint online at www.scan.alberta.ca or toll-free at 1-866-960-SCAN (7226).
• Residents are reminded never to investigate suspected problem properties on their own.
• Between January 1 and December 31 2015, SCAN teams opened 614 files, resolved 553 complaints and received nine Community Safety Orders to close problem properties.