Residents attending a presentation about Saskatchewan’s Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) program in Estevan on Tuesday raised questions about suspected gang activity, prostitution, unsafe properties, and the challenges of removing illegal activity from neighbourhoods. Johannah Audet, a SCAN investigator, spoke Tuesday at the Days Inn Estevan’s Taylorton Room. The program allows the province to take civil enforcement action against properties suspected of being used for specified illegal activities that adversely affect their neighbourhoods. During the question period, attendees asked how SCAN responds when investigators suspect a property is connected to gang activity. The discussion included graffiti and tagging, with investigators noting that people may even tag their own homes. Graffiti or suspected gang connections alone do not automatically justify enforcement. SCAN must establish that a property is being used for activity covered by the legislation and that the activity is having an adverse effect on the community. If the requirements are met, the program can seek a court order that may result in occupants being evicted. Attendees also asked about prostitution. Investigators discussed the challenges of gathering enough evidence to establish that a property is being used for that purpose, particularly when activity can move between communities. Challenges with problem properties Questions were raised about what happens when only some people living at a property are involved in suspected illegal activity. Audet explained that each situation is different and a judge may consider individual circumstances when deciding whether to issue a community safety order. Attendees also asked about children living in properties under investigation. Audet said SCAN contacts social services when children are involved, but the program’s mandate focuses on the property and specified activity. Another concern was whether removing people from a property simply moves the problem elsewhere. Investigators acknowledged that people may relocate, but said the aim is to disrupt activity and reduce its impact on residential neighbourhoods. “Maybe if we kick them around enough, maybe at least we can drive it out of the residential area so that it’s not happening next to your families,” Audet said. The discussion also highlighted the dangers officials can face when dealing with problem properties. Audet described an incident in Estevan in which a fire chief and crew encountered a booby-trapped doorway while carrying out work connected to an eviction. Municipal officials also discussed how property-maintenance bylaws and fire-safety requirements can provide additional enforcement options in certain situations. Depending on the issue, municipal bylaws may offer more direct tools for addressing unsafe or poorly maintained properties than SCAN’s legislation. Officials noted that legal procedures and required notices must still be followed. Related Stories: SCAN urges Estevan residents to report suspected drug activity Residents encouraged to report concerns Audet reminded attendees that residents can report suspected problem properties without their identities being disclosed. “We do not disclose the name of the complainant, even to the city police,” she said. Residents must provide their contact information when making a complaint, but SCAN is legally required to protect their identities. Investigators assess complaints and gather evidence before deciding whether enforcement action is warranted. Audet encouraged residents to report concerns rather than investigate suspected activity themselves. “See something, say something, please,” she said. Residents can submit a complaint online by searching for Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Saskatchewan or call 1-866-51-SAFER (72337).