The Grande Prairie Police Service (GPPS) proudly celebrated the graduation of Recruit Class #3 and Experienced Officer Program #6 at a ceremony held today at The Bowes at Bonnetts Energy Centre. Surrounded by family, friends, and community members, the 10 new recruits and six experienced officers were formally welcomed to the GPPS as they prepare to serve the City of Grande Prairie with professionalism, integrity, and respect.
This milestone marks another significant step in the growth of the municipal police service, which now has 70 sworn officers. The graduating recruits completed a comprehensive six-month training program delivered locally, including the Lethbridge Polytechnic Police Cadet Training Program, earning them a certificate in Police Cadet Training upon graduation.
“The graduation of Recruit Class #3 is a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and hard work of our recruits, as well as the guidance and support of our training teams and community partners,” says GPPS Chief of Police Dwayne Lakusta. “These new members bring a wealth of diverse experiences and skills that will strengthen our service as we continue to build a modern, community-focused police service.”
The newest constables come from across Alberta and British Columbia, with backgrounds spanning trades, environmental protection, peace officer work, corrections, and military service. Following graduation, they will begin mandatory field training under the supervision of experienced GPPS officers at the Grande Prairie RCMP detachment, applying their classroom training in real-world policing.
The ceremony also included the presentation of badges to six experienced officers graduating from Experienced Officer Program #6. These officers join the service with extensive policing backgrounds in major crime investigations, tactical operations, forensic identification, and community policing, further strengthening the operational capacity of the organization.
The service also welcomed its first canine handler, who is currently training the organization’s inaugural police service dog through a partnership with the Calgary Police Service. Once operational, the canine team will enhance the service’s ability to respond to critical incidents, track suspects, and support frontline operations.
Recruitment for Recruit Class #5 and Experienced Officer Program #7 is now underway. The GPPS will assume policing jurisdiction for the City of Grande Prairie on October 21, 2026, marking a historic transition to a fully municipal police service.
