FREDERICTON (GNB) – The Department of Justice and Public Safety is making conducted energy weapons (commonly known as Tasers) and carbines available to some employees.
Peace officers employed with Inspection and Enforcement New Brunswick will have access to the tools once they have completed mandatory training. They are responsible for enforcing provincial and federal legislation in the areas of fish, wildlife, environment and natural resources; commercial and off-road vehicles; illegal cannabis and tobacco; as well as criminal code, controlled drugs and substances and firearms offences.
“The performance of Justice and Public Safety officers over the past three years was impressive and showed that they can do more to support police,” said Public Safety Minister Kris Austin. “The RCMP is the New Brunswick provincial police force, but this initiative will not only keep officers safe, it also supports increased law enforcement capacity within the province.”
Peace officers work closely with all policing agencies in a support capacity when required. They are also integrated within the RCMP Tactical Traffic Enforcement Unit responsible for highway enforcement and the Integrated Enforcement Unit, which has a mandate to investigate low- to mid-level drug dealers. Integrated Enforcement Units are comprised of RCMP, municipal and regional police services and Justice and Public Safety officers, and they operate out of seven locations around the province.
Justice and Public Safety officers are appointed under the Police Act of New Brunswick and are trained to police standards in the use of force, intermediate weapons and firearms.
According to the results of the 2023 Policing and Public Safety Study, 80 per cent of respondents said Justice and Public Safety officers could do more to ensure a safe and secure province.
The department will also be deploying body-worn cameras for use in the field. These cameras aim at strengthening transparency, accountability and public trust. They also help resolve public complaints more quickly, improve interactions with the public and improve evidence gathering.
27-07-23