In the wake of the death of a southern Alberta peace officer, a petition is demanding the same protection for the peace officers as other law enforcement agencies.
Last Friday, peace officer and former RCMP member Rod Lazenby was investigating an animal complaint on a rural property near Priddis, when he was attacked and killed.
Now, many are calling on the government – through an online petition – to arm Alberta’s peace officers.
“Being out in a rural area, and not having the resources there within a couple of seconds or even minutes, it takes a lot out of you just to be able to keep focused,” Peace Officer Chris Terry said.
Most peace officers are only armed with pepper spray and a baton – and although they are always in contact with their dispatchers, they rely on RCMP officers for backup.
While they do carry a shotgun, they’re only intended for use when dealing with distressed animals.
The Solicitor General said allowing peace officers to carry a firearm is a possible solution.
“That is an option,” Solicitor General Jonathan Denis said. “Another option is to require community peace officers to have a partner with them as is required of police officers.”
Hundreds have added their names to the online petition.
The province will wait until a review of Lazenby’s death is complete to make any concrete decisions on the issue.
A regimental funeral is being planned for Rod Lazenby in High River next Friday.
With files from Amanda Anderson
