Legislation & Accountability
Learn about the authorities that guide the PRC's work to provide fair and transparent police oversight.
The PRC mandate
The PRC is an independent, civilian-led agency established to address police complaints and ensure transparency and accountability. We handle serious and sensitive incidents, statutory offences, and police code of conduct violations. The PRC, which includes the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT), investigates complaints thoroughly and decides appropriate actions, including disciplinary measures.
This mandate is focused on strengthening public trust in law enforcement by providing fair, transparent, and objective oversight.
Legislation and oversight
The PRC operates within a framework defined by key pieces of legislation that ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness. These authorities provide the foundation for how complaints are managed, investigated, and resolved, supporting the PRC’s mission to uphold the highest standards in law enforcement oversight.
Police Act
The Police Act outlines the legislative framework that governs police operations in Alberta.
Police Conduct and Oversight Regulation
The Police Conduct and Oversight Regulation complements the Police Act with specific rules that outline the practical applications of the Police Act for police services.
Systemic reviews
The chief executive officer of the can initiate systemic reviews related to police conduct or emerging trends without the need for a public complaint. Police services, chiefs of police or oversight bodies are required to provide the CEO with any relevant records or information and the CEO must publicly report the findings of the review.
Rules and guidelines
The PRC’s chief executive officer has the authority to make rules and issue guidelines governing the agency’s processes and procedures.
