SASKATOON – The public will get its chance to share its thoughts on a controversial issue. The Saskatoon Board of Police Commissioners want to hear from you about street checks.
A street check involves a police officer stopping a pedestrian, due to suspicious circumstances, and requesting information from that person related to their activity.
WATCH: Saskatoon protesters call for an end to carding
The commission announced Monday that it is seeking input on street checks, also known as carding, so it can develop regulations and protocols to guide police services across the province.
“Our local police commission wants to gather opinions on this issue from residents of our city and forward these to the provincial commission for its consideration,” police commission chair Darlene Brander said in a release.
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In 2014, nearly 4,500 people were stopped by the Saskatoon Police Service and asked for personal information. Over 730 street checks were conducted in 2015.
Critics of carding say the practice unfairly profiles people whereas law enforcement say it reduces crime and members only randomly stop individuals walking, when warranted.
Public response will be received online or through the city clerk’s office until April 13.
Meaghan Craig contributed to this story
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