Alberta police officers who have made outstanding efforts to prevent impaired driving will be celebrated at a special awards ceremony in Edmonton, as MADD Canada recognizes their commitment to keeping communities safe on provincial roads.
The Cpl. Cumming's Watch Police Awards, established in 2015, honour law enforcement personnel across Alberta for their dedicated work in combating impaired driving. The program is a collaborative effort involving MADD Canada, Alberta RCMP, and Alberta Transportation's Office of Traffic Safety.
A Legacy Rooted in Tragedy
The awards program bears the name of Cpl. Graeme Cumming, an RCMP officer who was killed on duty on August 12, 1998, when an impaired driver struck him on Highway 3 near Lethbridge. Nearly three decades later, the initiative continues to inspire officers across Alberta to prioritize public safety and prevent similar tragedies.
"This award recognizes the frontline officers who are making a real difference in our communities," said organizers of the ceremony, which will feature interviews with award recipients and photo opportunities for media.
Recognition for Excellence
The recognition program sets clear benchmarks for achievement. Alberta police officers who charged between 15 and 24 impaired drivers during 2025 will receive a certificate of recognition and a Silver Challenge Coin. Those exceeding 25 impaired driving charges will earn a Gold Challenge Coin and certificate.
Nominations are open to every police agency across Alberta, allowing officers from rural, municipal, and provincial services to be recognized for their enforcement efforts.
The awards ceremony provides an opportunity to spotlight the officers working behind the scenes to reduce impaired driving incidents—a persistent public safety challenge across Canada. With impaired driving remaining a leading cause of criminal injury and death on Canadian roads, the recognition of these officers underscores the critical importance of consistent enforcement and community protection.
This story is based on a media advisory from MADD Canada and originally reported by Financial Post.