REGINA — Long-time Regina residents have mixed feelings about the new Regina Police Service (RPS) service office inside the Cornwall Centre.
On Thursday, the RPS opened the “hub” inside the mall, increasing security and presence around downtown.
Dainan Pranauskas, who has lived in Regina for nearly 40 years, called it a wonderful idea.
“It'll contribute greatly to the safety and progress of the local economy.”
Pranauskas mentioned large shopping centres with jewellery or merchandise are always at risk for break-ins, and adding police presence will deter criminals from attempting a crime.
Another long-time Regina resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said while adding security is great, it doesn’t address the underlying problems.
“There are more homeless people, there are more poor people. Society's struggling. There's this huge wealth gap, and people are desperate, so there's more thievery and criminal activity.”
The man, who has worked at the Cornwall Centre since 2008, never remembered seeing lots of police and security presence.
“On any given date, when I walk into the mall [now], there's a security guard sprinting, there are alarms. We hear about different criminal activities downtown all the time.”
The man said the city needs to have a multifaceted approach to address the problem.
“You can't just have lots and lots of police and security and people living in fear. It doesn’t make for a comfortable, happy society.”
Pranauskas also believed more action is needed to reduce downtown crime.
“I feel for the homeless poor because of their circumstances, and more supports are needed to get them proper help.”
Currently, the RPS has 27 dedicated officers in the downtown area, while the Cornwall Centre uses up to 10 security guards at a time.
While the police will be working out of the hub, citizens are asked to report any crimes to the main headquarters on Saskatchewan Drive.
