Saskatchewan Marshals Service starts training first 10 officers

Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS) has officially begun training its first 10 experienced officers, marking a significant step toward an early launch of the province’s newest police force. 

Initially projected to start in 2026, the SMS is now on track to become operational by the summer of 2025.

Deputy Chief of Enforcement Rich Lowen said the seven-week training program will ensure every marshal is equipped to uphold the SMS mandate of detecting, disrupting, and deterring criminal activity across Saskatchewan. 

“Training is the key to excellence,” said Lowen. 

“We are ensuring our team is prepared, capable, and ready to serve throughout the province.”

The training includes firearms qualification, defensive tactics, tactical emergency casualty care, and trauma-informed policing. 

High-risk vehicle stop procedures, along with indigenous culture courses, will add to each officer’s skill set. 

According to the SMS, this approach builds on each recruit’s existing law enforcement background and working with partners like the RCMP, First Nations police services, and municipal police forces.

Established in October 2022, the SMS was formed to address high-profile crimes such as gang activity, illegal weapons, and drug offences. 

The SMS also aims to tackle agricultural concerns, including cattle theft, crop damage, and trespassing. 

Despite an initial annual budget of $20 million, the government has fast-tracked recruitment and training to meet growing public safety needs across the province.

Chief Marshal Rob Cameron, a former RCMP officer, oversees the new force from its headquarters in Prince Albert. 

Plans are in place to open regional offices and expand the service to 70 officers plus support staff over the next few years. 

Officials say collaboration with existing agencies is crucial to achieving the SMS mission and maintaining public confidence.

The SMS has not come without criticism. 

Some groups, including the Sask NDP and police unions, have questioned whether the service could strain resources or overlap with current policing initiatives. 

The SMS will bring much-needed support to rural areas, addressing concerns around property crime and repeat offenders.

The first class of marshals is set to graduate in April.