Cross Lake’s cadet program is receiving four tents, 20 PFDs, paddles and other equipment valued at a total of $15,000 thanks to funding from criminal property forfeiture grants.
RCMP “D” Division is also receiving $91,000 for ballistic vests and cameras for canine units, a self-contained mobile forensics lab worth $100,000, $45,000 worth of low-light and night vision equipment and a new network system valued at $59,000 to expand the range of tactical robots and make them more effective in remote areas.
Victims’ services programs will also receive $450,000, some of which will pay travel and parking costs for families of fatality victims who attend court and for interpreters to help people applying for protection orders.
Altogether, the provincial government is providing $1.85 million worth of grants.
“The criminal property forfeiture program is a unique opportunity to take money from unlawful activity and put it to good use,” said Justice Minister Heather Stefanson in an Aug. 17 press release. “The grant provides stronger supports for victims of crime, while also investing in new investigative tools, community safety initiatives and improved officer safety throughout Manitoba. We also want to recognize the important work of the RCMP K9 unit and we are proud to help support new equipment to keep these highly trained dogs safe in dangerous situations.”
“Through the criminal property forfeiture program, we have the ability to strip criminals of the proceeds they have gained through illegal activity and enhance policing services across Manitoba,” said Scott Kolody, commanding officer of RCMP “D” Division. “The money and equipment announced today will directly enhance the safety of our officers, help us target child predators and improve community projects led by our detachments.”
