West End Continues to Suffer Drugs and Crime

The police surge in the center of the city seems to have the unintended consequences which is driving the problem into the West End. Businesses and residents have indicated that there is has been greatly increased drug use and criminal activity in their area. News stories seem to confirm the activity. And even those just passing through will notice the influx of people and drug activity plainly visible.

In the days after the July long weekend the numbers have really increased for those out on the streets. Drugs are ever present as are the needles and other sharp material. The vulnerability of businesses, churches, schools and cars is palpable. A door locked does not represent safety. Walking to your home, car, place of worship, restaurant could be perilous despite how short the distance. 

Some business people indicated they were adding security features or patrolling themselves but almost all were crying for sustained police presence. As of June, we have increased police numbers in keeping with our increased population but we are still below the national ratio for police. Those running for council or mayor could make a case more police on the street. Those asking for defunding of police could be asked how they would handle the problems the city is facing now. Perhaps they have better answers. Living a socialist life doesn't always end addictions and mental health issues as demonstrated by the Soviet Union or present day China where reports say young are using mind numbing drugs. And the toxicity of the drugs now make it seem impossible that even with food and shelter security, some people are not going to have the mental health or addictions control to to avoid self harm and harming others.

It is no wonder why the West End is begging for some relief. To support using drugs every day requires money and that means anything that is not cemented to the ground is taken and sold. A vacant house will be stripped down and a fire set to stay warm resulting in another tooth knocked out on the street. Whatever sympathies people have can't stand the constant pressure of fear and loss. As it gets colder, we could see an acceleration and loss of life seems inevitable and, in fact, is already happening. A more aggressive stance for criminal behaviour comes with that. There is zero tolerance for violence or, at least, should be. Chronic repeat offenders have to be dealt with. Just as repeated drug and alcohol driver who won't control their actions, they have to serve time because even loss of license or car sometimes doesn't work.

The numerous councillors and MLAs still holidaying is galling. Do something and stop saying a long term plan is being debated. You don't have that amount of time. If something happens in a school, you won't have anywhere to hide. And it will. Kids navigating the bodies, needles and possible assault will be hard to ignore. School starts soon. We can't let this get worse.