Alberta’s government is putting the province at the forefront of police oversight in Canada with the creation of the PRC. This new commission replaces the patchwork of police investigating police with one independent body responsible for managing the full complaints process from receiving and assessing, to investigating and resolving complaints related to police conduct, including serious incidents, statutory offences, and overseeing disciplinary hearings.
By centralizing these functions within a single, independent agency, Alberta is ensuring complaints are handled fairly and consistently.
The Police Review Commission represents a new era in how Alberta addresses policing complaints. These changes are part of a broader paradigm shift where police are no longer seen as an arm of the state, but rather an extension and reflection of the community they serve. As an independent agency, it is committed to fairness, accountability and public trust, ensuring every complaint is investigated impartially and resolved openly.
A timely and transparent complaint resolution process is essential for both the public and police. That is why the PRC must complete investigations within 180 days. If more time is needed, the chief executive officer must publicly report on delays and provide justification. This ensures clarity, predictability, and accountability throughout the process. The commission will be arm’s length from government and police services, meaning people can have greater confidence that their complaints will be investigated and resolved impartially. The PRC can initiate systemic reviews related to police conduct or emerging trends without the need for a public complaint. These reviews must be made public. Together, these measures create a clear, accountable process that strengthens transparency, supports continuous improvement, and enhances trust in how police oversight is carried out across Alberta.
The commission’s design was formed through engagement with Indigenous communities, law enforcement partners, municipal officials, and community organizations, ensuring its structure and training reflect Alberta’s diversity and values.
MLA – Calgary West Mike Ellis proudly serves the following Communities: Aspen Estates, Aspen Woods, Christie Park, Discovery Ridge, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill, Strathcona
