LPS balance public awareness and safety with integrity of investigation

By Justin Sibbet - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on June 23, 2023.

Information has been scarce regarding a suspected kidnapper at large in Lethbridge following a two-month investigation.

However, the public’s desire to become aware of potential criminals on the loose can sometimes conflict with the police necessity to investigate with a low profile.

On April 23, a 72-year-old woman was kidnapped by a man claiming to be a police officer, then she was forced to go to a bank on Mayor Magrath Drive and withdraw an undisclosed amount of cash for her kidnapper.

A weapon was never brandished, and the woman was taken home unharmed, but the crime went unreported by police for two months before the Lethbridge Police Service asked for help Wednesday to find the suspect.

While public safety is a priority, situations are not always black and white, the Lethbridge Police Service LPS said in a statement sent to the Herald Thursday.

“Our primary concern is public safety and in any case involving a major crime, police consider a news release to inform the community,” the statement reads. “Each situation is managed and evaluated on a case-by-case basis considering all the information, details and evidence we have.”

LPS said a news release will bring awareness to the public and officers will always do their best to ensure safety.

“In some cases there is an immediate need to notify the public so adequate preventative steps can be taken by community members to ensure their safety. In cases where there is a public safety concern, police will always err on the side of caution and release information to the public without delay.”

LPS said in the case of the senior citizen kidnapping, the lack of public awareness was potentially crucial for the ongoing investigation, and there was no reason to believe withholding information would create danger for the community.

“In this particular case, police were confident a delay in releasing the information would not cause any public safety issues and in fact, benefit the investigation by allowing officers to explore some specific avenues without jeopardizing the integrity of the case.”

LPS said balancing safety with investigative needs is considered under every circumstance.

“In every case, police must balance the public’s desire to know about criminal activity with investigative needs.”

And once the investigation is complete, more information will be given to the public.

“We understand the community has questions in relation to this matter and the investigation is ongoing so that we can provide answers.”

LPS said there are leads in this case, and the investigation is still ongoing.