AB Crown Attorneys

Full statement below from the executive of the @albertacrownatt regarding funding for #LegalAid in Alberta @LegalAidAlberta @CDLACalgary

Let's use this incident as a catalyst for dialogue on improving safety measures for all those who visit courthouses, whether to access the justice system or because it's their workplace. Violence against those upholding the administration of justice is unacceptable. 2/2

We were extremely concerned to learn of the recent assault on a prosecutor outside a Vancouver courthouse. On behalf of the Alberta Crown Attorneys' Association, we stand in solidarity with the British Columbia Crown Counsel Association and the prosecutor. 1/2

Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and community of the fallen and injured police officers in British Columbia. This loss is felt across borders, and we stand in solidarity during this difficult time. @BCRCMP @cqrcmp

The ACAA is devastated to hear the news of two @edmontonpolice officers who recently lost their lives in the line of duty. This is a tragedy that reverberates among all justice system participants. We send sincere condolences to the service, their colleagues and loved ones alike.

“The proof is in the pudding. Five years ago the government committed to creating 50 new positions to fill, to deal with the resourcing issues that we have. It’s five years later and only six percent of those positions have been filled.” globalnews.ca/news/8395629/a…

@CheSkulskiCTV reported today on the “triple threat” experienced by @albertacrownatt as a result of staff shortages. edmonton.ctvnews.ca/triple-threat-…

@albertacrownatt president Dallas Sopko spoke with @CHATNewsTiffany today about the breaking point facing Albertan Crown Prosecutors. "They can commit or announce the creation of as many new positions as they want but if they can't fill them, then what's the point?" Sopko said

The president of the Alberta Crown Attorney's Association is hoping to speak with the justice minister about burnout and staffing shortages with crown prosecutors. Dallas Sopko says there are 1,200 court cases involving serious crimes at risk of charges being stayed.

Unfortunately, announcing new Crown Prosecutor positions that cannot be filled with experienced prosecutors, while losing seasoned lawyers to other jurisdictions, cannot fix this crisis. @YourAlberta needs a new strategy that addresses the root causes. /13 (end)

And 84% of the Alberta Crown Prosecutors reported that, at least some of the time, they attend Court feeling underprepared. /12

@albertacrownatt President Dallas Sopko was interviewed by @MarkConnollyCBC of @EdmAMCBC this morning, talking about the crisis facing Alberta prosecutors. Listen in: cbc.ca/listen/live-ra… This thread summarizes some key points. /1