Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation introduces new Community Safety Officer program

Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation has launched a Community Safety Officer (CSO) program to provide visible, community‑based patrols, enforcement and safety support. Director of community development Kevin Seesequasis said the Nation recently took possession of a fully equipped CSO truck with emergency lighting, radar and operational gear, completing the final administrative step for the program.

CSOs are hired directly by the Nation and appointed as special constables, authorized to enforce selected provincial statutes and community bylaws, assist with traffic enforcement, respond to safety concerns and support emergencies. They also attend lower‑risk property offence scenes to gather information and liaise with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Officers have completed training in enforcement, emergency response, first aid and community safety, and their radios are linked to Saskatchewan’s Provincial Public Safety Telecommunications Network for direct coordination with the RCMP, fire departments and other emergency services.

The initiative is presented as an investment in safety, wellness and self‑determination for the community. Residents can contact the BOCN Community Safety Officer Dispatch at 306‑467‑2227, or call 9‑1‑1 in an emergency.