Investigators from the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit obtained a court order against the owner of 7123 Glenwood Drive in Edson, barring anyone from the property for 90 days.

The community safety order, which took effect June 21, gives sheriffs the authority to board up the house and fence off the property to prevent anyone from entering during the closure period, which ends Sept. 17.

“We believe in giving law enforcement investigators the tools they need to protect Albertans and keep them safe, no matter where they live. SCAN investigations are an effective way of helping people take back their communities and stop criminal activity by holding owners accountable for what happens on their property.”

Kaycee Madu, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General

The SCAN unit was able to substantiate complaints about drug activity and successfully obtained a community safety order in Court of Queen’s Bench on June 8. Investigators observed drug use and drug transactions on the property, along with a large number of people coming and going from the premises.

The SCAN investigation also received information and support from the local RCMP detachment, which has responded to many calls for service at the property in recent years.

Under terms of the order, no visitors are allowed on the property for two years. After the 90-day closure ends, the owner is the only person authorized to live there until the court order expires on June 8, 2023.

The SCAN unit works with other law enforcement agencies to shut down properties being used for illegal activities. The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act gives sheriffs the authority to target problem properties through civil enforcement.

Since its inception in 2008, Alberta’s SCAN unit has investigated more than 5,800 problem properties and issued nearly 100 community safety orders. The majority of complaints are resolved by working with property owners to keep criminal activity out of the community.