News
Grande Prairie Police Service embarks on historic recruitment drive

Mar. 18, 2024, Grande Prairie, Alta. – The Grande Prairie Police Service (GPPS) has started inviting both experienced police officers and new recruits to join the ranks of Alberta’s newest municipal police service.

The experienced police officer class is set to kick off this spring, targeting individuals with a minimum of 18 months’ experience as sworn police officers in Canada. As a testament to GPPS’ commitment to attracting top-tier talent, experienced officers will benefit from a transitional allowance of up to $25,000.

In the fall of 2024, the GPPS will welcome its first recruit class, opening opportunities for individuals eager to play a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of the new police service. The rigorous application process involves a series of assessments including written, physical, psychological and polygraph tests, along with behavioural and personal disclosure interviews and a comprehensive background investigation.

“We are seeking compassionate, community-minded leaders who mirror the diversity of Grande Prairie and embody the values of the GPPS,” said GPPS Chief of Police Dwayne Lakusta. “Our vision is clear, our dedication to service is unwavering, and we are eager to build a team that reflects the high aspirations we hold for our community.”

Recruits will receive compensation from day one of hiring, at a salary of $76,854, increasing up to $113,859 after five years. Officers will also get the assurance of a lifelong pension plan through the Special Forces Pension Plan, ensuring financial stability after 25 years of dedicated service. This opportunity not only offers a competitive salary but also the chance to contribute to the growth and safety of Grande Prairie.

“The GPPS is on a mission to build a modern, professional, ethical, equitable, and locally accountable police service dedicated to enhancing public safety within our community,” added Chief Lakusta. “When fully staffed, we will be a comprehensive public safety agency boasting more than 225 personnel, including police officers, peace officers, outreach workers, social workers, nurses and other civilian professionals.”

The ranks of GPPS will boast a wide variety of opportunities for officer advancement, including sergeant for aspiring supervisors and detective for keen investigators. Officers will also be able to take on specialty roles like bike patrol, police dog services, tactical teams, serious crimes, forensic identification, drone operation, community engagement, school resources and ALERT to address drugs and organized crime.

The application process involves a crucial step for potential candidates—the Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test (APCAT). Interested individuals can take the APCAT even before applying, with multiple exam sessions scheduled for February, March and April, following a well-attended pair in late January.

For more information, visit gppolice.com/careers or contact recruiting@gppolice.com.

The Grande Prairie Police Service is a progressive and community-focused police service committed to excellence in public safety. Established in 2023, GPPS is the first municipal police service in Alberta since 1956. The service aims to build a modern, professional, ethical, equitable and locally accountable police force to enhance public safety within the vibrant community of Grande Prairie.

Over the past several months, Chief Lakusta has established his executive and support team. This team brings extensive experience in their fields and will play an integral role in the transition process. Newly hired members include:

• Darrin Balanik – Executive Director, administrative operations
• John Respet – Supt., police operations bureau
• Greg Redl – Supt., corporate & community services division
• Mike Lefebvre – S/Sgt. training & recruitment
• Shawn Graham – Sgt. – training unit
• Graham Bourke – Cst. – training unit
• Jodie Boyne – Senior Strategic Advisor
• Erica Fisher – Public Information Officer
• Robin Mo – Emergency Services Information Technology Manager
• Jacqueline Daigneault – Administrative Assistant