Alberta launches single police review body aimed at improving transparency

Alberta has consolidated its police oversight system under a new Police Review Commission, a move the provincial government says will simplify how the public files concerns about police conduct. Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis announced the start of operations on Monday, saying the province wanted a clearer and more consistent process for handling complaints.

The new commission replaces a mix of police service units and external agencies that previously managed different parts of the disciplinary process. The province says the centralized model is intended to reduce confusion for residents and strengthen transparency around how allegations are investigated. The commission will assess complaints under three categories ranging from lower level misconduct to the most serious cases, including incidents involving death.

Ellis noted that several former police officers have joined the commission to provide operational insight into how investigations unfold. He said their experience can help ensure files are handled thoroughly, while stressing the organization will operate independently from police services across the province.

The overhaul holds implications for Alberta communities, including major centres such as Edmonton and Calgary, where residents have called for clearer oversight structures in recent years. The province says the new model is designed to give the public more confidence in how complaints are reviewed and resolved.