Prince Albert police are issuing tickets at an escalating rate, but the intention is not to punish — it is to praise.

Their Positive Ticketing Program rewards youth for good behavior like shoveling a sidewalk, picking up trash, or observing school crossing rules.

Patrolling officers issue tickets that are actually coupons or gift certificates donated by local businesses that are redeemable for items or experiences like a Prince Albert Raiders game, movie at Galaxy Cinemas, Slurpee, french fries, hamburger or ice cream cone.

"It reinforces positive behavior by offering something of value to those observed doing something to better the community," says Police Service spokesperson Sgt. Brandon Mudry.

Partner businesses include Dairy Queen, A & W, McDonalds, Mac's, 7/11, and PA Fast Print.

Variations of the Positive Ticketing Program have been established across Canada in communities such as Richmond, Kelowna, Grand Prairie and Toronto. The initiative has shown that strategic, community-based partnerships can help prevent crime and strengthen communities. Cops in Ohio did the same thing this summer and in Texas, too.

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