P.A. police force nearly matches local Aboriginal diversity
As police forces come under increased scrutiny for their handling of race and diversity, Prince Albert’s police force has nearly achieved what many other forces have not.
Jason Stonechild, inspector in charge of operations with the Prince Albert Police Service (PAPS), said 37 per cent of staff are self-declared as Aboriginal and two of their last 10 hires were First Nations.
According to 2011 census data for P.A., 39.6 per cent of the population is Aboriginal.
“It’s very beneficial having someone who reflects the community going into difficult, complex situations,” he said. “Because of their diversity and connection to the community they’ll be able to resolve situations quicker.”