Leaders at the provincial level are reacting to growing complaints about drug use and crime in downtown New Westminster. Business owners say the situation is getting worse, especially near busy commercial areas.
Robert Stone, who runs a local office for a tax service, says he deals with the issue almost daily.
“There have been people using drugs in the stairwell right outside our second-floor office. We can even smell crack smoke inside,” Stone shared.
Recent data from the downtown area reveals troubling trends. Robbery cases have risen by 200 percent from last year. Theft is up by 67 percent, property damage by 39 percent, and assaults have increased by 7 percent.
Despite the rise, local police say these numbers reflect a pattern seen over the past three years. But they also say their powers are limited when it comes to drug-related enforcement.
“Provincial policy is clear. We can’t lay charges for simple drug possession,” explained Sgt. Andrew Leaver.
In response to concerns, the Public Safety Minister’s office clarified that the province does not control everyday police actions. However, critics say the government must step in more strongly.
Elenore Sturko, a public safety advocate, pointed out that drug decriminalization was already rolled back in British Columbia more than a year ago.
“That means using or carrying drugs in public is illegal now,” she said. “To fix the problem in New Westminster, the law must be enforced.”
Some local business owners believe a nearby supervised injection site has made the problem worse. They claim more people now gather in the area, bringing crime and drug activity with them.
But the operator of the site says the issue is much more complex. He notes that drug use often connects to homelessness and mental health issues.
“Our goal is simple: stop people from dying,” said Travis Walker of the Purpose Society. “And in that sense, we’ve done a good job.”
Police say they are taking the issue seriously and plan to boost their efforts downtown.
“You’ll soon notice more police officers in the area,” said Sgt. Leaver. “We’ve started a short-term redeployment to focus directly on the downtown core.”
Residents and shop owners alike say they want real changes. Many believe more police on the street will help improve safety and restore confidence.
With business at risk and locals feeling uneasy, many say it’s time for real solutions, not just more talk.
