Calgary

High River residents to be compensated for RCMP searches

Residents in High River, Alta., will be compensated for damage incurred to their doors during RCMP searches in June amid a flooding evacuation.

Homes damaged during forced entries and gun seizures

RCMP officers wear masks to protect against possibly of toxic conditions amid the High River floodwaters. Homes were damaged as officers forced entry into homes looking for flood victims. (Jordan Verlage/Canadian Press)

Residents in High River, Alta., will be compensated for damage incurred to their doors during RCMP searches in June amid a flooding evacuation.

The mayor and town council announced Wednesday evening they will be collaborating with the province and RCMP to manage a compensation process for residents who incurred damage to their doors and entry-way windows during June's forced entries and gun seizures.

When the town was under an evacuation order during June's floods, RCMP went house-to-house, breaking down doors as they searched for victims of the flooding.

Officers also took firearms that they said were left in plain view, sparking anger from gun owners and prompting the Prime Minister's Office to demand that the RCMP return the guns as soon as possible.

Residents who suffered damage can call the RCMP at 403-652-2356. An officer will come to their home and confirm the damage.

RCMP are asking that homeowners supply photos of the damage, repair the damage and then submit the receipts for reimbursement to the High River RCMP detachment.

The Town of High River will then process and mail the payment.

Anyone who has already started a claim with the RCMP does not need to resubmit the claim.