Se Ab Rural Crime Watch Association

The Rural Crime Watch Program was established in Alberta to reduce incidences of crime in rural areas and to increase farmstead safety.

History of Alberta Rural Crime Watch


Historically as long as there have been farmers and ranchers in Alberta the "Redcoats", R. C. M. P. have stood as a symbol of justice and peacekeeping. The presence of the R. C. M. P. and their co-operating with landowners contributed to a safe, and secure lifestyle.


Lifestyle began to change in the 1960's with the advent of technical innovations such as reliable 4 wheel dive vehicles making lands more assessable. This soon led to disappearance of cattle, nuisance problems such as pasture gates being left open, trespassing, and other criminal activities.


In 1969 a Cochrane rancher along with other residents of the area formed the Cochrane Foothills Protective Association. Members Volunteered to accompany R. C. M. P. officers and acted as guides on back roads and hard to access ranch and farmland properties. Criminal activities lessened.


Western Stock growers, Alberta Cattle Commission, Department of Agriculture and R. C. M. P. met to address the problem of the rural crime activities and explore ways to address the rural concerns. Thus "Range Patrol" was sired.


In 1978 Range Patrol was viewed by the media as a group of "red necked vigilantes". To enhance the image of the Range Patrol organizations throughout the province, the program was renamed Alberta Rural Crime Watch.