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Smithers RCMP hopes to increase female representation

This year, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is celebrating women in policing

This year, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is celebrating women in policing while continuing its commitment to increasing female representation to 30 per cent by 2025.

Currently the Smithers detachment sits at 10 per cent. 

"The detachment is getting a female recruit this spring which will bring us up to 15 per cent," said media relations officer Cst. Jocelyn Foidart. 

"We recognize there is still work to be done to achieve greater balance. I am hoping that showcasing stories of women in policing will inspire future generations because women make vital contributions to law enforcement."

The first up to bat is Constable Melissa Murray, a dedicated member of the Smithers RCMP for nearly a decade.

According to a press release from the RCMP, Cst. Murray is a highly skilled officer known for her expertise in handling complex investigations and her work as a child interviewer.

Her reputation extends beyond Smithers with other detachments often requesting her assistance in investigating their most challenging cases.

"Cst. Murray is highly respected by both her peers and the community for her hard work and professionalism. She embodies the very best of the RCMP, and we are proud to have her on our team," said Sergeant Ryan Law, Smithers RCMP.

The release goes on to say that as a senior member of the team, Cst. Murray plays a key role in mentoring junior officers. Her leadership and teaching abilities shine in her role as an instructor, where she is certified to teach incident management and tactical principles, the release stated.

"Cst. Murray is an invaluable member of our team, and her contributions have had a profound impact on our detachment," said Staff Sergeant Mark Smaill, who oversees the detachment.

"Her dedication, expertise, and leadership inspire everyone around her. She sets the bar high and exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence."

Cst. Murray balances a demanding career with being a mother of four teenagers. When she’s not working to keep her community safe, she can be found at the arena watching her boys play hockey. 

 



Marisca Bakker

About the Author: Marisca Bakker

Marisca loves the outdoor lifestyle Smithers has to offer
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