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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

Rustad: BC Can’t Be Known for the Highest Extortion Charge Threshold in Canada


Conservative Party of BC Leader John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes, says revelations from Surrey Police confirm that crime is spiraling out of control, and the NDP’s broken justice system is failing in its first duty — to keep people safe.

“BC’s legacy cannot be that it has the highest threshold in the country for laying extortion charges. Premier David Eby has presided over a system where police work around the clock while violent criminals walk free because Crown approval drags on. This isn’t about Crown counsel themselves; it’s about providing them with the resources and tools to do their jobs, and about the rules and direction set by the premier,” said Rustad.

“As extortion fuels bullets in Surrey, squeezes businesses across Metro Vancouver, and pushes shopkeepers on Vancouver Island to consider closing their doors, crime is threatening our way of life. British Columbians deserve safe streets and real leadership, not false commitments and a premier and ministers hiding from a problem that families cannot hide from in their own communities.”
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Elenore Sturko, MLA for Surrey-Cloverdale and Critic for Public Safety and Solicitor General added: “Confirmed shootings are up 89% in Surrey this year, with 27 tied to 39 extortion attempts – yet still zero charges. Families and business owners are living in fear while the public safety minister ignores the crisis and hides from accountability. We need enhanced patrols, proper funding, and a real plan to stop this violence, not silence from the government.”

Steve Kooner, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough and Critic for the Attorney General, said: “The Crown must have the tools and resources required to keep pace. There needs to be a dedicated task force involving Crown and law enforcement to fast-track charges on extortion files.”

“British Columbians deserve safe streets, thriving businesses, and a justice system that protects victims, not criminals. It’s time for real accountability and leadership” said Rustad. 

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