The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit of the Alberta Sheriffs obtained a court order against the property owner of 4520 19 Avenue NW. The property will be closed for 88 days, beginning on Aug. 25, at noon. All individuals must vacate the premises, including the property owner.

The community safety order, obtained in the Court of King’s Bench, bars all people from the property until the closure period ends on Nov. 21. The property will be boarded up, fenced and all the locks will be changed. SCAN members will continue to monitor the property for activity while their investigation remains ongoing. Community safety order conditions remain in effect until Aug. 25, 2027.

“Thanks to the SCAN unit and the Calgary Police Service for their collaboration to ensure a successful resolution to this investigation. Let this be a message to all drug dealers, you are not welcome in this province. It is unacceptable for Albertans to have drug-fuelled criminal activity and chaos in their backyards, and I urge residents to stay vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activity in their communities.”

Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

“Working closely with local police, SCAN continues to play a critical role in supporting problem-property investigations across Alberta. This closure is yet another instance of SCAN’s success in restoring residents’ peace of mind. I would like to thank the Calgary Police Service for its close partnership on this file.”

Michael Dirkson, inspector, SCAN

“The closure of this property is a significant step forward in addressing the concerns of residents who have endured months of disruption and fear due to ongoing drug activity. The Calgary Police Service remains committed to working alongside the Alberta Sheriffs and the SCAN unit to ensure our communities are safe, secure and free from the harms associated with illegal activity. We thank the public for its vigilance and encourage continued reporting of suspicious behaviour. Your voice plays a vital role in protecting our neighbourhoods.”

Ralph Veckenstedt, District 2 acting inspector, Calgary Police Service

The Alberta Sheriffs work with other law enforcement agencies to shut down properties being used for illegal activities. The SCAN unit operates under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, which uses legal sanctions and court orders to hold owners accountable for illegal activity happening on their property.

Since its inception in 2008, Alberta’s SCAN unit has investigated more than 10,000 properties and has issued 135 community safety orders. Most complaints are resolved by working with owners to stop the illegal activity on their property.

Quick facts

  • Calgary police responded to 31 calls for service to the property since September 2024.
  • Since opening their investigation in October 2024, SCAN investigators have observed activity consistent with drug trafficking.
  • Public complaints have also noted suspected laundering and trafficking of stolen property at the house.

Related information

Related news

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Inspector Mike Dirkson of SCAN will be available between 1:30 and 2 p.m. for on-camera interviews at 4520 19 Avenue NW in Calgary.