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Miramichi Police Force
Community Services Section
Zero Tolerance
2003 Chevrolet Super Sport Roadster
The Miramichi Police Force is very proud of the "Zero Tolerance” program
which focuses on combating the never-ending battle against drugs & alcohol
abuse.
Since the beginning in 1996, until mid 2009,a vintage
1976 Chevrolet Corvette was the "mascot". for the program. This Corvette,
which had been painted and equipped with Miramichi Police Force graphics,
was acquired through business donations. The restoration was done by
members of the Miramichi Police Force by volunteering their off-duty time.
This program has been recognized throughout New Brunswick and beyond.
The goals of our program are:
- To educate citizens of our community with emphasis
on youth in drug and alcohol related crimes.
- To promote a positive relationship between police
and the public
- To promote our community and our police service
beyond the city limits
Members of our police force have been attending to
events within and outside of our community with our “Corvette”. From
parades to home shows, our Corvette has been the mascot, it acts as a
catalyst to draw people to us. It allows us to promote “saying no to drugs
& alcohol”. There are no tax dollars involved in this project.
The uniqueness of this program resulted in it being
recognized in a National Police magazine. “Blue Line” magazine featured a
full-page article commending this public relations program.
Our Corvette was 32 years old this year. Although
restored and maintained, its age limited our range of travel.
In the Spring of 2009 we had the opportunity to
acquire a 2003 Chevy SSR (Super Sport Roadster), which has only 18,000 klms
on it. This vehicle was stolen in British Columbia in 2004 and was
recovered by our police force in October of 2007. Other then repainting,
this vehicle is in near perfect condition. Members of the Miramichi Police
Force, out of their own association funds, purchased this vehicle for
$10,000.00 from the insurance company, which owned it.
This project has no tax dollars involved in it’s
operation. It is a community program supported by volunteers from our own
membership. We have managed to obtain funding to have this vehicle
repainted but we are still seeking support for funding to have emergency
vehicle lighting installed as well as having some display banners prepared.
We are seeking your financial support and are seeking $1000.00 to go towards
the purchase of these items.
Abstract
Prior to developing and offering Zero Tolerance, we consulted other agencies across Canada to see if there were any similar programs available. We discovered that this program was unique and there were no other comparable projects.
The realization that we would be the only police service in Canada with such a program became a motivator for completion. We were further enthused by the support shown from those contacted in our community.
The idea of using a vehicle to draw attention to a program of zero tolerance of drugs and alcohol came about from discussion and planning of our members.
Once the idea was born, the work began.
Through efforts of the planning group, a vehicle was identified meeting their needs. Through the efforts and support of many the vehicle, trailer and police equipment were obtained.
Such an undertaking would not have been possible without the financial assistance and support from local businesses, service groups, and private sector. The group appreciated the overwhelming support as they embarked on their project March 1, 1996 with anticipated completion date being March 1, 1999.
On January 1, 1996, the Provincial Government adopted the graduated licensing system for new drivers with zero tolerance of drinking while driving.
In turn , we adopted the name Zero Tolerance for our program and our mascot (Corvette Stingray).
Members have been attending events in our community taking part in parades, car and home shows, putting forth our Zero Tolerance Program with our Zero Tolerance vehicle front and centre. We have been invited to, and have participated in, many other events outside our jurisdiction such as T.A.D.D. (Teens against drunk driving) seminar in Fredericton; Balloon Festival in Sussex, and Grand Manan Island Home and School Conference.
Our program continues to be very successful. Requests are received to participate in events at home, across the Province, and throughout the Maritimes.
Sponsorship
Miramichi Police Force has attained their goal in the successful completion of the Zero Tolerance Project. This was possible because of the support of local businesses, service groups, and private citizens who contributed financial assistance, product, time, and expertise.
Recognition of contributors is displayed on the trailer that is used to transport the Zero Tolerance vehicle and on a plaque displayed with the Vehicle at public events. Sponsors also receive a certificate of appreciation from the Miramichi Police Force.
We look forward to continued success of our Zero Tolerance Program with support from our community and on-going activities of the program members.
Zero Tolerance Goals
The goals for Zero Tolerance include:
- Educating citizens of our community with emphasis on youth in drug and alcohol-related crimes
- Improving the relationship with police and the community
- Promoting the community and police service outside our service area
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