Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN)
If you are suspicious of a property in your neighbourhood, submit a SCAN report and do not investigate it yourself.
SCAN officers with the Provincial Protective Services (PPS) Branch investigate reports filed by residents who are concerned about potential criminal activity in their neighbourhood, and are responsible for enforcing the The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act. Situations residents can report on include – but are not limited to – drugs, gang or criminal activities, prostitution, child sexual abuse, and the unlawful sale or use of alcohol.
While officers are located in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert, they investigate complaints across the province. They work closely with municipal police services and RCMP detachments to address illegal activities and their impact on Saskatchewan communities and residents.
1. Responsibilities
SCAN officers use civil enforcement processes to target properties, rather than people, to shut down illegal activities without laying criminal charges.
They frequently respond to complaints of suspected drug and gang activity, and work with owners and landlords to end criminal activities through enforcement actions, such as warnings, evictions and community safety orders.
As part of their duty, SCAN officers submit community safety order applications to the courts and enforce orders that are approved. Through these measures, SCAN officers help to better ensure the safety and security of Saskatchewan’s neighbourhoods, communities and residents.
2. Become a SCAN Officer
The knowledge and skills required to become a SCAN officer in Saskatchewan would typically be gained by the successful completion of training in a police academy/college supplemented by extensive policing experience.
You can find and apply for all current job opportunities by visiting Careers in the Saskatchewan Public Service.
Applicants must identify where they gained experience in conducting investigations and enforcement and intelligence gathering in areas of drug enforcement, vice investigations and organized crime and gangs.
They must also identify where they gained knowledge of:
- law enforcement principles, practices and techniques;
- provincial legislation, statutes, regulations and policies related to enforcement;
- current use of force theories, applications and practices as they pertain to law enforcement;
- investigative and interview techniques, theories and principles; and
- court procedures and legal documents/processes.
Applicants will be required to:
- undergo psychological testing;
- complete a criminal record check and background checks;
- qualify for a heightened level of security clearance;
- possess a valid driver’s licence; and
- successfully complete use of force certifications to the standard of the Saskatchewan Police College (defensive tactics, OC spray, baton and firearm).