Paul Bickford
Northern News Services

Hay River (Sep 01/03) -

Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Sep 01/03) - This is one job you don't need a cape and superpowers for.

Hay River RCMP are looking for ideas and involvement from the public to combat growing crime in the community.

The police would like to see people help with efforts to deal with the problem, said Sgt. Don Fisher in a presentation to town council, Aug. 25.

"My intent is to raise awareness in the community," Fisher said, noting everyone would benefit if residents took a more proactive approach.

The RCMP have noticed a trend towards an increase in break-and-enters, drug offences and violent crime.

However, Fisher stressed Hay River is still a great place to live. "It's not my intention to paint a bleak picture."

In fact, he complimented Hay River as a progressive and prosperous town, although noting prosperity sometimes attracts the criminal element.

"With the positive sometimes comes the negative," Fisher said.

Mayor Duncan McNeill suggested the town hold a public meeting to raise awareness.

Fisher agreed that would be a good idea, noting it would give residents an opportunity to discuss the issue, share experiences, ask questions and suggest solutions.

The sergeant also hopes any responses to the situation can be community driven.

A public meeting has tentatively been scheduled for Sept. 15.