After three months of training, Winnipeg Police Cadets are now patrolling the streets on their own. And they're getting rave reviews.
"I think it's enhancing safety in the city," says Const. Brett Lockhart. "The bright blue uniforms let people know they are out there and there is that extra level of security."
The class of 29 recruits is being used to secure crime scenes, direct traffic and even guard mental health patients, freeing up police officers for more pressing issues.
"We've actually been hearing quite a bit from police officers that they feel better now," says cadet Justin Kruger. They can go do the more serious stuff and the higher priority calls."
It seems the program is working. Cadets diverted traffic at the scene of a woman hit by a school bus in December. Last weekend they helped police catch an armed robber at a Winnipeg convenience store.
Some business owners are noticing the difference.
"It's good," says Voula Limberatos, owner of the Alexis Grill. "It's more safe to be downtown especially when you come early in the mornings. It's good, it's very safe."
Information sessions for people interested in becoming cadets will be held during the evenings of Jan. 5 and 11. The sessions start at 6:30 p.m. at the police academy on Allard Ave.
-With a report from CTV's Stacey Ashley
