CLARIFYING ON CRIME

There have been community conversations in the West Shore which have
drawn the mistaken conclusion that a massive drug problem is fueling
widespread crime. This is not the case and I would like to clarify.

It is true that during the first half of 2006, the West Shore RCMP
detachment has noted an increase in theft of vehicles and theft from
vehicles. Residential break-ins are slightly up as well.

To draw the conclusion that an uncontrolled drug culture is
responsible, and that the trend will increase is not completely accurate.

There are many factors which influence a spike in crime statistics.

In 2005, we saw the lowest thefts from vehicles in the West Shore
over the past five years. It is logical to assume that 2006 may have
an increase over a record low year.

Although drug-addicted youths are responsible for many of these
property crimes, this factor cannot be considered in isolation. One
must also consider the increase of vehicles and houses in the area.

The occurrence numbers volleyed around in the media and the community
are raw occurrence numbers, not numbers related to population or vehicle rates.

I think we will all agree that the West Shore has grown substantially
over the past five years.

One must also consider that a very small number of misguided
individuals can create a rather large spike in criminal involvement.
These crime stats will fluctuate as the individuals are identified,
taken before the courts and removed from the streets.

The recent community crime prevention meeting at Isabelle Reader
Theatre was an event planned months ago and was not in response to
public pressure for action.

Further crime prevention meetings will continue to occur on the West
Shore, as they always have. Enforcement activity has always been a
police action and will continue.

One solution to reduce crime is to reduce opportunity.

Please remove valuables from your vehicles. Purchase and use a theft
deterrent device for your vehicle. Be aware of activity in your
community and call police if you see something suspicious. Lock the
doors to your residence.

Crime prevention is a community activity.

The West Shore municipalities continue to be safe communities. By
working with the police at reducing opportunity, residents can ensure
their property remains safe and their communities continue to grow
strong and crime resistant.

Generally, the crime rate is falling in B.C. The Ministry of Public
Safety and Solicitor General website contains crime stats for the
complete province and can be found at
www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/police-services/publication/index.htm#costs.

Cpl. Gord Bedginfield

NCO i/c Community Policing

West Shore RCMP