File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Abbotsford-Mission MLA Pam Alexis

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Keeping communities safer

Apr 19, 2023 | 10:27 AM

THE SAFETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIANS is a top priority for our government, and that includes making sure that people feel safe in their own communities. Right now, our province is taking action to tackle issues related to repeat violent offenders.

We are establishing 12 community hubs through the Repeat Violent Offender Intervention Initiative (ReVOII), which will help bring a coordinated approach to the issue of repeat violent offenders in Abbotsford, Kamloops, Surrey, New Westminster, Nanaimo, Kelowna, Cranbrook, Prince George, Williams Lake, Terrace, Vancouver and Victoria.

This means that in every region of B.C. there will be a team of dedicated Crown prosecutors and probation officers working together with other partners, focusing on stronger and enhanced enforcement and more in-depth investigation into incidents of repeat violent offences.

Professionals from these community hubs will be involved in virtually every aspect of a case, including the court proceedings and support and supervision after release. This will include making plans for individuals who suffer from complex and unique mental health and addiction issues to reduce the risk of repeat offences.

We recognize that every region and community in the province has its own unique needs, and those on the front lines in non-profits, hospitals and law enforcement will have the most nuanced understanding of what their community requires to be safe. The ReVOII will open communication between these key local partners, prosecutors and probation officers.

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In tandem with the hubs, the province will be investing in the Special Investigation and Targeted Enforcement (SITE) program. SITE will help with better coordination between police, the community hubs and the province for repeat violent offences, and also increase police capacity for investigations into such matters.

This initiative is a part of our province’s Safer Communities Plan and comes in addition to other ways we’ve been working to protect British Columbians.

We recently introduced “Unexplained Wealth Orders,” which targets the proceeds of organized crime, something that is directly linked to the toxic drug crisis in British Columbia, and to repeat violent offenders.

We’re also increasing funding for RCMP and police officers in communities across the province.

The issue of repeat violent offenders requires a complex and multi-layered approach. We are approaching safety for people here in B.C. holistically by encouraging collaboration between people with earned knowledge and experience to best combat the often-complicated circumstances that surround these issues. Our Safer Communities Action plan will complement other actions our government is taking to combat mental health and addiction issues, homelessness, and the cost-of-living crisis.

When it comes to keeping our communities safe, our government knows that we’re stronger together.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.