When you look at most communities in BC, you will see that a small number of people are responsible for a disproportionate number of calls for service to the police, bylaws, and other public safety officials. In Langley, for example, about five people had over 500 calls for service to the police over a year.
These people find themselves in and out of the courts and jail, and many of them experience homelessness, mental health challenges, and problematic substance use. These people need help.
In 2023, the provincial government launched the Repeat Violent Offending Intervention Initiative, which is successfully addressing the small number of people who commit a disproportionately high number of violent crimes. Based on this model, the provincial government is launching the Chronic Property Offending Intervention Initiative to similarly address the small number of people responsible for a significant share of vandalism, street disorder, and property crime.
This new program, funded by the provincial government, has 12 hubs, including one in Langley. These hubs will have a coordinated team of crown prosecutors, police, probation officers, correctional supervisors, community integration specialists, and mental health workers. The program will also include housing and substance-use supports.
In Langley City, I know some of the people who will likely be candidates for the Chronic Property Offending Intervention Initiative by name. I’m encouraged that this program is now in our community, as it will have a positive impact, reducing repeat property-crime-related activity.
For more information about this program, please read the provincial government's news release.
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