RCMP officers are there to protect people whenever they are in need, but the job description can expand to include the occasional animal as well.
Cpl. Christ Newel, Operations NCO for Kimberley, reports that this week it was an animal in distress which required police assistance, an elk which had become entangled in a wire fence.
“Police were alerted to an elk in distress off Highway 95A east of Kimberley around 11:00 am.,” Newel said. “Sgt Darrell Robinson immediately attended and found a cow elk laying on her back with two legs caught in the wire. He was able to approach the animal and free one leg, using wire cutters he was able to free the second leg. Shortly after the elk stood up and walked away, with no apparent injuries.”
“We believe the elk was held captive for a least an hour before their arrival. The elk could have suffered a painful death or be attacked by predators. Cpl. Chris Newel, Operations NCO for Kimberley, The public often call us when there is crisis or immediate assistance is required, in this case we were able to respond quickly, free the animal and allow her to get back to nature, unharmed.”
You can see the video of the rescue here. http://kimberley.bc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=1017&languageId=1&contentId=39861