The Yukon Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is creating a new civilian position of community program officer to enhance community policing and allow officers to focus on frontline duties. Chief Supt. Lindsay Ellis highlighted that this role will help allocate resources more effectively. The Yukon government has announced over $7 million in funding, which includes more than $3 million for ten police positions and additional resources for operations and infrastructure upgrades. This funding will support a new call handling system, a tactical armoured vehicle, and renovations at the Whitehorse detachment, which has become outdated for current policing needs. Ellis noted the importance of addressing issues surrounding the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, which has faced criticism for its association with drug trafficking and crime. She stressed the need for a balanced approach to policing that includes investments in social services and education to address the root causes of crime. The RCMP aims to work collaboratively with community organizations to improve safety while ensuring vulnerable populations are not pushed into unsafe areas.