The Nelson Police Department has launched an online criminal record check system, allowing residents to apply without going to the station in person.
The department launched the new “Virtual Front Counter” on Feb. 2. At the Feb. 6 Nelson Police Board meeting, Chief Donovan Fisher described the initiative as a major step toward improving convenience and efficiency.
“I think it’s going to be a huge innovation for the department. It certainly opens up the ability for people at all hours to get these things done when they maybe don’t have time to try and find parking and walk three blocks to the department to get a criminal record check done and then have to come back three or four days later to go through the same process,” Fisher said.
Applicants can use the system to submit requests, verify their identity, pay fees and receive results securely online.
“There’s a lot of security features within it to submit your identification and the proper forms and what you need to get that done. And time will tell, but it looks like it’s going to be a pretty efficient and quick turnaround time,” Fisher added.
According to the system’s website, vulnerable sector police information checks are available only to Nelson residents. Applicants must upload an authorization letter from their employer or volunteer organization requesting the check.
Homestay programs and educational internships or practicums are considered employment under the policy. Vulnerable sector checks for agencies outside Canada will not be accepted.
Volunteers must also provide a signed letter confirming their role with the organization.
If an application triggers a potential match, individuals will receive an email with instructions to book a fingerprint appointment at the department.
For immigration or citizenship purposes, applicants must still attend the police station in person to apply for a certified criminal record check with fingerprints.
Police said RCMP fingerprint verification cannot be completed online.
More information can be found here.
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