The British Columbia government has launched a new $5 million fund to help police fight non-violent crimes like shoplifting. This money is part of the Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program (CSTEP) aimed at improving safety in B.C. communities. While shoplifting may seem less serious compared to violent crimes, police and retailers warn that it harms local businesses and public safety.
The fund will support police efforts to reduce theft, repeat offenses, and street disorder through outreach, targeted enforcement, and partnerships with social services. Police leaders say that enforcement alone cannot solve the problem, and new resources will help address chronic street issues linked to repeat offenders.
Community leaders have reported that theft and robberies are disrupting local operations. Many retailers have expanded their security teams in response to rising crime. Retail workers face aggressive organized retail crime, which affects families and damages property. Some stores, like London Drugs, have even taken special safety measures due to the increasing risks.
The $5 million fund allows police agencies to apply for resources to increase patrols and intervene more effectively in shoplifting cases. Some cases involve drug-addicted individuals connected to organized gangs. The program aims to expand local efforts like Project Lifter in Victoria, which has resulted in many arrests.
Similar programs in Vancouver have shown positive results, with drops in theft and violence in crime-prone areas. Despite these efforts, experts say that violence and disorder stem from mental health and addiction problems. These are worsened by a lack of social resources and the current bail system, where offenders are often quickly released.
Officials want police to submit innovative plans when applying for the fund. Cooperation between police, businesses, and social services will be important, including more foot patrols, focused operations on theft and drug trafficking, and security education programs.
Long-term progress also depends on federal bail reform, which remains a debated issue in Ottawa. Changes to the bail system were proposed two years ago but have yet to be fully implemented. The new provincial fund is a step toward a more coordinated approach to crime, but success will rely on combined efforts at all levels.
