The first of four new traffic enforcement teams will be in operation this week. The unit will patrol high-risk areas looking for traffic violations.
Officers on the teams have special training to know the signs that something more serious could be happening. Officers will be on the lookout for a number of things, including weapons and the movement of drugs by vehicle.
EPS officials say those who are committing big crimes are often also involved in committing smaller crimes such as traffic offences.
“If we can impact at a lower level quicker we prevent the opportunity from that other crime from happening," said Deputy Chief Brian Simpson with the Edmonton Police Service.
The three other traffic units that will be part of this campaign will be introduced gradually, with one being implemented in the fall and the other two in early 2013.
With files from Bill Fortier
