CTV News has learned that Calgary police are considering a Con-Air Program similar to the one being piloted in Victoria, B.C.
On Tuesday, an Alberta man landed back in Calgary to face charges after receiving a one-way ticket as part of Vicotria's Con-Air Program.
Bobby Durocher, 25, was arrested in Victoria last Thursday after he was caught drinking and in possession of crack cocaine in a public square. After his arrest police realized Durocher has some warrants for his arrest in Alberta.
Police say Durocher is one of many people who have moved to the West Coast with outstanding criminal charges. "What we found is most of these offenders, when they move to Victoria, are committing similar types of offences and they are becoming a burden to our justice system here. By moving them back, we're not going to be dealing with those particular offenders," says Acting Inspector, Jamie Pearce from the Victoria Police Service.
The Victoria program is modeled one being run by Vancouver police. Crown council and police, together with out of province prosecutors, make arrangements for accused criminals to be flown back to the province where they have outstanding charges.
The Vancouver program received $40,000 in funding from the British Columbia government. The rest of the money was fundraised by police.
In Victoria, the program is being launched with a $10,000 grant from the Downtown Victoria Business Association. "Because of the impact which our business and property owners find with people who choose to disobey the law, we are supporting the Con-Air Program," says Ken Kelly from the business association.
Durocher was the first accused criminal to be flown out of Victoria through the Con-Air Program. His flight cost around $1,000.
Durocher has been handed over to Gleichen RCMP to face several charges including assaulting a police officer, resisting arrest and uttering threats.
