Rocky Mountain House RCMP are reporting an overall drop in crime to start 2026, despite a notable spike in break-ins.

Statistics released by Royal Canadian Mounted Police show total Criminal Code offences in the Rocky Mountain House rural detachment area fell 17.1 per cent in January and February compared with the same period in 2025.

The decrease amounts to 37 fewer offences overall, driven by declines in both violent and property-related crimes. Police reported 18 fewer crimes against persons — a 24.7 per cent drop — and 13 fewer property crimes, down 13 per cent year-over-year.

Rocky Mountain House RCMP are reporting a 17 per cent drop in crime in January and February of 2026 as compared to the same time period in 2025. (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)

However, not all categories saw improvement.

Break-and-enters rose sharply by 42.9 per cent, with 10 incidents reported in the first two months of 2026, compared with seven during the same period last year. Eight of those incidents occurred in February alone, including four at residences and one at a business.

By contrast, several other types of property crime declined significantly.

Theft of motor vehicles dropped 45.5 per cent, with six reported cases so far this year, down from 11 in early 2025. Theft under $5,000 also fell 28.6 per cent, with 15 reported incidents — six fewer than the previous year.

Police said two vehicles were taken without consent in February, with no cars, trucks or SUVs reported stolen during that month.

Statistics on select property crimes in Clearwater County in January and February 2026. (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)

While statistics showed modest improvements, Staff Sgt. Stephanie Lefsyk said there’s still room for improvement — particularly when it comes to increased public engagement.

“Community engagement continues to be a priority,” she says. “[The public] wants to see us out there with the flashing lights, they want to see us at the parade, they want to see us at their event.”

Those priorities reflect a recent survey of Rocky Mountain House residents, which showed a desire for increased RCMP visibility in the community and a crackdown on drugs.

The crime statistics were presented to Clearwater County on March 24, with the RCMP saying they’re taking a proactive approach to tackling rural crime as the months get warmer — including at remote oilfield sites and in Nordegg.

The figures are based on data drawn from the RCMP’s live reporting system and may be subject to minor changes as investigations continue. Additionally, Lefsyk adds that certain crimes such as property theft, is often underreported.

The delegation also said residents can download the new RCMP app which can be used to report crime, view crime maps and access RCMP partner agencies including mental health supports.