Kelowna RCMP assigns 2 more officers to patrol the downtown core

If you're spending any time in downtown Kelowna, you will likely spot two new members of the Kelowna RCMP Community Safety Unit.

Kelowna RCMP are introducing Cst. Mike Gauthier and Cst. Sam Boutin as the newest reinforcements in charge of patrolling the downtown core.

The downtown foot patrol unit is a newly developed program with hopes that downtown businesses and residents know they have a pair of dedicated members who are looking out for them and are available to assist with enforcement, problem solving and community safety through crime prevention.

“I am a huge proponent of crime prevention through education and strong community policing” says Cst. Gauthier.

“I too live in this community and want to see people living and working in a happy and safe environment,” he adds. “My personal goal is to further bridge the communication between police and our local businesses to strengthen our working relationships and reduce crime. Only together can we achieve this common goal, s please don't hesitate to say hi and chat.”

Cst. Boutin share the sentiment, saying that he is excited to make the downtown area a better place.

“When I heard the detachment was developing a downtown foot patrol unit, I told them I was very interested as I could see how productive it would be on so many levels to have that face to face interaction with the public.” says Cst. Boutin.

“Not only are we able to engage with the downtown business owners, but we can assist other clients in need by connecting them to support services and other intervention programs. Ultimately we hope our presence will reduce the calls for service and prevent crime in our downtown community.”