The Regina Police Service (RPS) is set to modernize its indoor firearms training range, thanks to more than $280,000 in funding from the Government of Saskatchewan’s Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund.

The funding, derived from the proceeds of crime, will support extensive renovations to the facility, which serves law enforcement agencies from across the province. The government says the project will help enhance officer training, strengthen policing services, and improve community safety throughout Saskatchewan.

An equal amount, another $280,000, will also be directed to the province’s Victims’ Fund, which supports victims of crime and funds community programs that promote safety and rehabilitation.

“Maintaining and updating police training facilities is one of the first steps in building safe communities for Saskatchewan residents and families,” said Michael Weger, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety. 

Weger added that the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund allows government to redirect the profits of crime back into communities. He said that with this investment, officers will benefit from a state-of-the-art training centre that ensures they are ready to meet evolving challenges.

The RPS indoor firearms range is used not only by Regina officers, but also by recruits and instructors from police agencies across Saskatchewan, including Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Estevan, Weyburn, Luseland, Corman Park, Vanscoy, Dalmeny, and the File Hills Police Service. The facility also supports firearms instructor training through the Saskatchewan Police College and assists Protective Services employees in maintaining firearms certification and safety standards.

“Crime in our community is evolving — and so must our response,” said RPS Deputy Chief Trent Stevely. Stevely also stated that ongoing, relevant training is essential to keeping both the public and officers safe. He acknowledged that the funding ensures every officer who trains here is equipped with the skills they need to respond effectively.

According to the province, the modernization project will include upgrades to accommodate advances in firearms technology, improve safety standards, and create a more efficient training environment.

The Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund redistributes proceeds and assets seized from criminal activity under The Seizure of Criminal Property Act. Funds are allocated to initiatives that enhance public safety, support victims, and strengthen policing capacity across Saskatchewan.

Since its creation in 2009, the program has redirected more than $10 million back into provincial communities. This fall’s funding announcement totals over $1.6 million in approved distributions to law enforcement agencies and community organizations. In 2024–2025 alone, the fund allocated more than $1.1 million for similar initiatives.

The Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund operates on the principle that crime should not pay, turning seized assets into resources that support public safety and justice. Disbursements are typically made once per fiscal year, depending on available resources.