B.C. government details new plan to deal with repeat offenders

The project will also include improved monitoring of violent offenders.

“Repeat violent offending is a concern right across the country,” Attorney General Niki Sharma said. “That’s why just last week we secured a federal commitment to make legislative changes to the Criminal Code that would add stronger provisions on repeat violent offenders and some firearm offences. At the same time, we’re making changes here in B.C. to strengthen enforcement and improve services to make our communities safer and healthier for everyone.”

The province will spend $25 million over three years to support:

* 21 Crown counsel and 21 other professional BC Prosecution Service professional staff to establish and support the dedicated prosecution teams;

* four full-time BC Corrections officials to develop, co-ordinate and evaluate the program;

* nine correctional supervisors;

* nine probation officers based in correctional centres for enhanced release planning; and

* 12 dedicated probation officers based in community corrections offices to support the teams.

“We are pulling out all the stops to make sure British Columbians feel safe,” Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said. “Our government made a commitment to tackle the complex issue of repeat violent offending, and we’re backing that promise with concrete action.

by Pete McIntyre / Vernon Matters

B.C. government details new plan to deal with repeat offenders

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