Thoughts on BC Politics and More

VicPD has launched a dedicated, ongoing covert enforcement initiative focused on addressing disorder and crime in the downtown core, resulting in the generation of multiple drug trafficking files and 16 arrests over the first two days.  The initiative, dubbed “Project 3D” (disrupt downtown disorder) and led by VicPD’s Strike Force unit, aims to disrupt criminal activity in problematic locations downtown and improve safety for residents, businesses, and visitors.  The initiative utilizes a combination of proactive policing strategies including high-visibility patrols, targeted surveillance, and undercover operations, in partnership with City of Victoria bylaw officers. Targeted areas include, but are not limited to, Pandora Avenue, Centennial Square, Ellice Street, Queens Avenue, Princess Avenue, Mason Street, and more.   Some notable files include:  25-28167: A man was arrested for trafficking cocaine while seated in a chair directly in front of an Island Health...

Housing providers need better tools to stop criminal elements creeping into supportive housing and taking advantage of a vulnerable population, says Victoria’s top cop, who argues police should be more involved in the early stages of housing decisions. Chief Del Manak, giving his final quarterly report to council before his retirement this year, said he wants to see the province strengthen the Residential Tenancy Act so operators can keep criminals out of supportive-housing facilities. “When you have safety compromised, that has to trump most other things,” Manak said. “[Housing providers] are asked to do a very difficult job. If they’re asking … [for] tools to help keep their location safe, keep their staff safe and keep residents safe, then we need to be listening to what their concerns are and working with them and giving them the tools they’re asking for" ... CLICK HERE for the full story