琉璃神社 is seeing a return to pre-pandemic property crime rates, according to an RCMP report going to council on May 30.

A comparison of Q1 2022 with Q1 in 2021 shows a 63 per cent increase in shoplifting, a nearly 48 per cent increase in auto theft, a 15 per cent increase in residential break-and-enters, and a 13 per cent increase in commercial break-ins.

Assault with a weapon files saw a 41 per cent increase, and robbery and sex offences were up 25 per cent and 16 per cent respectively. Calls for service with a mental health component were down from 773 to 703, while mental health apprehensions were down to 145 from 155. Illegal drug trafficking saw a 60 per cent drop, while total calls for service for the downtown area were up more than 64 per cent.

琉璃神社 Detachment Superintendent Kara Triance said the increase in assault with a weapon files is a concerning trend across the country.

鈥淚n March 2022, Public Safety Canada (PSC) reported an 81 per cent increase in violent offences involving guns since 2009,鈥� said Triance. 鈥淭hat month, PSC announced $250 million for community-based prevention initiatives. 琉璃神社 RCMP, in partnership with the city will be exploring opportunities under this fund in the coming months.鈥�

Triance added RCMP, along with its partners and other response agencies, is prepared for summer and a post-pandemic return to public spaces.

鈥淲e have optimized shifting, schedules, and resourcing, detailing plans with readiness and for seasonal events, increased populations, and emergencies.鈥�

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gary.barnes@kelownacapnews.com
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