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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

CrossRoads Brewing Fire Shows the Cost of NDP’s Catch-and-Release Justice

Conservative Caucus of BC MLAs say the destruction of CrossRoads Brewing is a tragic example of repeat offenders devastating communities, small businesses, and local economies.


“This wasn’t just a fire, it was the loss of a community hub, dozens of jobs, and years of investment,” said Rosalyn Bird, MLA for Prince George–Valemount and Critic for Citizens’ Services. 

“The accused has made at least 19 court appearances since 2021, and was even convicted of sexual assault back in 2009. Small businesses are telling me they’re ready to shut down and leave Prince George because crime is out of control. That is a tragedy for families, workers, and our economy.”

Bird added: “CrossRoads was exactly the kind of business BC needs more of - building community, creating jobs, and drawing people downtown. Just last Thursday, we heard directly from Craft Brewers and distilleries in Prince George about how rising taxes are making it harder to hire and keep staff, and that evening Prince George MLAs hosted a town hall for businesses on public safety where crime was top of mind. 

“Less than 24 hours later, CrossRoads burned to the ground. Instead of supporting entrepreneurs, the NDP’s soft-on-crime policies are driving them out.”

Elenore Sturko, MLA for Surrey–Cloverdale and Critic for Solicitor General and Public Safety, said the case highlights the danger of repeat offenders. “This is what happens when prolific offenders are cycled in and out of the system with no real consequences,” said Sturko. 

“British Columbians see it every day, the same names, the same crimes, and the same revolving door under this NDP government.”

Sturko added the problem isn’t limited to Prince George. “A survey by the Business Improvement Areas of BC found 67 per cent of businesses have seen more street disorder in the past year, and nearly one in five say they may not survive another year if conditions don’t improve,” she said. 

“The NDP’s catch-and-release approach and failed drug policies have fueled this crisis. Prolific offenders keep cycling through the system while business owners, staff, and customers pay the price. Whether it’s shoplifting in Vancouver, vandalism in Kelowna, or arson in Prince George, business owners and staff are telling us the same thing, they don’t feel safe. Communities are losing hope,” said Bird. 

“We will continue fighting for a justice system that delivers real consequences for repeat offenders and puts victims and communities first,” said Sturko.


 

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