Saskatchewan’s Provincial Protective Services (PPS) has officially become fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Saskatchewan is the third jurisdiction in Canada to receive accreditation from the U.S.-based credentialing authority. “This is an extraordinary achievement for Provincial Protective Services,” Community Safety Minister Michael Weger said in an update from the province on Wednesday. “Earning CALEA accreditation in the first four years of its operation is a testament to the professionalism, dedication and commitment of our Provincial Protective Services’ officers and staff.” On Wednesday, the province announced that PPS is successfully completing its final on-site assessment with CALEA—the last major step in the accreditation process. The province says CALEA accreditation represents a “gold standard” in public safety. PPS underwent a multi-phase review with CALEA earlier this year, which included virtual assessment and intensive on-site evaluation in Regina. “During the visit, CALEA assessors observed demonstrations of the service’s operational capabilities, reviewed equipment and technology, and examined how PPS’ integrated structure enhances coordination and response across the province,” read the update. The government says the demonstrations were meant to highlight how PPS uses its tools, specialized equipment and communication systems to carry out enforcement along with public safety and protective duties. PPS is an organizational structure composed of the Conservation Officer Service, Saskatchewan Highway Patrol, prisoner transport and court security deputy sheriffs, Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) and Wascana Park Community Safety Officers. The organization was created in April 2022, bringing all the aforementioned services under the same umbrella to create a more coordinated approach to public safety. So far, the Winnipeg Police Service and Camrose Police Service are the only other Canadian jurisdictions to achieve CALEA accreditation status. The Saskatchewan Highway Patrol received CALEA accreditation in 2022, which helped lay the groundwork for the PPS’s broader pursuit of the same goal. CALEA is expected to review its findings from the on-site assessment before it makes a final decision. “Our officers demonstrated the tools, technology and operational readiness that allow PPS to respond effectively across the province. I am incredibly proud of the professionalism they displayed throughout this process,” said Jeff Rowden, commissioner and executive director of Provincial Protective Services.
