Salmon Arm RCMP are facing a rise in counterfeit cigarettes along with several serious investigations and community safety efforts, according to their recent quarterly report.
Staff Sgt. Simon Scott updated city council on police activities from January 1 to March 31, 2025. One major case involves charges related to child sexual abuse and exploitation material. Scott said these charges target a “repeat offender,” showing the ongoing focus on protecting vulnerable people in the community.
The police are also working on several missing persons cases, including the search for Derek Ryde. Ryde was reported missing on March 25 but had not been seen since February 25. RCMP are collaborating with Shuswap Search and Rescue and Ryde’s family to locate him.
The report noted a troubling series of deaths involving three young people from Salmon Arm. Scott shared that another tragic death occurred after the report was drafted, emphasizing the difficult times the community is facing. “Our thoughts continue to go out to those families and community members affected by these events,” he said.
The RCMP has seen a noticeable increase in counterfeit cigarettes in the area. There has been a rise in seizures of these illegal goods, pointing to a growing problem with fake tobacco products in the community.
Salmon Arm RCMP also focused on traffic safety. Over the quarter, officers responded to 1,524 calls for service, with 1,222 of those inside the city. They made 248 traffic stops, resulting in charges against nine drivers who were prohibited from driving. Police handled 24 collisions involving significant damage, injuries, or fatalities within Salmon Arm during this period.
Currently, the Salmon Arm RCMP detachment is operating at 81% of full capacity, with 21 officers on duty. Two new constables are expected to join the team this summer. Scott is also working to fill the vacant Operations NCO/Sergeant position and a corporal role, with a promotion process expected soon.
Increased community engagement remains a priority. Officers stepped up foot patrols in busy areas such as the city center, the farmers market, and during Salmon Arm Silverbacks hockey games. Despite these efforts, Scott joked that the increased patrols “didn’t seem to help” much, highlighting ongoing challenges.
The RCMP has been partnering with city bylaw officers to address problematic residences in town. They are also active in local schools and community groups, offering presentations on important topics like scams, safe social media use, and safety around motorized scooters.
Councillor Kevin Flynn raised concerns about rural policing, saying he has not seen improvements during his time on the council. He believes the lack of rural police presence adds pressure to urban officers. Flynn stressed the need for more police resources, noting the issue has been raised repeatedly with the provincial government and will be brought up again at the upcoming Union of British Columbia Municipalities meeting. “I think the numbers would show that it’s needed to have one more officer,” he said.
