News release

Name the cruiser contest picks winners

April 17, 2025 - Penticton, British Columbia
From: Penticton RCMP

Content

Cst Tristan Williams and Cst Mike Rampone are members of the Penticton RCMP Indigenous Policing Section. They have the privilege of serving the Penticton Indian Band, working to provide specialized policing services to the members of the band. The youth of the Penticton Indian Band remain the priority and focus of this team and the Penticton RCMP.

Officer Williams and Rampone are important fixtures within the community, working hard to create safe, supportive and engaged interactions with every member of the Penticton Indian Band. The community is able to tell which officer is on shift by the trucks they drive. “Csts. Williams and Rampone’s police trucks both have very distinct looks with unique characteristics, that could be said match each of the officers’ personalities” said Superintendent Beth McAndie.

In an effort to foster a deeper connection with youth and community, the Penticton RCMP Indigenous Policing Section works hard to create meaningful interactions with the youth at Outma Squilx’w Cultural School, in Penticton. The officers are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to demonstrate to youth that police officers are there to support them and work with the community to ensure safe spaces for all children. At the beginning of the school year Tristan and Mike held a contest with the Grade 4 class at Outma Sqilx’w Cultural School in Penticton, “Name the RCMP Police Trucks”. The students submitted their nsyilxən language suggestions for the police cruisers and a reason why the trucks should have this name. On March 31st, with the assistance of Chief Gabriel and Superintendent McAndie the two winners were selected. Constable Mike Rampone’s vehicle winning entry was mlqnups, which means ‘golden eagle’, while Constable Tristan Williams’ vehicle will be named silxʷa? skəmxist, which means ‘big bear.’

"Our students have benefited immensely from Csts. Rampone and Williams’ knowledge, guidance, and commitment to their well-being. The Constables’ involvement has also contributed to a more positive and respectful school climate. It helps that they are humorous, committed, and down to earth!” said xatus (Principal) Toni Gallicano.

The winners each received a customized caricature hoodie and framed drawing depicting each officer with their newly named police truck.

Penticton Indian Band Chief Greg Gabriel added “We’re proud to see the growing connection between our First Nations police officers and the youth in our community. These positive interactions build trust, mutual respect, and a shared sense of responsibility for a safer, stronger future.”

“The Penticton RCMP would like to thank the students and staff at Outma Sqilx’w Cultural School for their enthusiastic participation in this contest. We are very proud of the work that both Csts. Williams and Rampone lead within the Penticton Indian Band. The Penticton RCMP are proud collaborators with the Penticton Indian band and are dedicated to continuing to build trust and creating a sense of safety within community” said Superintendent McAndie.