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The Vancouver Police Board has announced that a comprehensive report regarding allegations of political influences and arrest quotas within the department will be released in June. This communication comes amidst rising concerns over the police’s operational practices, especially in the context of the Downtown Eastside region.
Director Allan Black relayed to the board that the complaint focuses on the purported expectation of establishing arrest quotas by the Vancouver Police Department. He confirmed that findings from the investigation into this matter will be presented at the board’s subsequent meeting, scheduled for June 19.
Supporting materials for the board meeting included a heavily censored email sent to the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner by an anonymous whistleblower. This individual claims to be a dissatisfied officer within the Vancouver Police Department, raising alarm over the current state of policing practices.
The complaint originated last month and alleges that the department has arbitrarily imposed arrest quotas as part of Mayor Ken Sim’s “Task Force Barrage.” This initiative aims to address drug-related violence and other criminal activities in the Downtown Eastside.
In a related discussion, outgoing Police Chief Adam Palmer informed board members that the task force has reportedly contributed to a significant decline in break-ins, robberies, and violent offenses. Palmer referred to these outcomes as “incredible results” for community safety. However, he also noted a concerning 25 percent increase in assaults against police officers, highlighting recent alarming incidents, including a slashing attack and a case where an officer was set on fire.
“We’re really pleased with the outcomes despite facing adversity with officer assaults,” Palmer stated. He further emphasized that the decreases in crime have not been well-received by those involved in illegal activities, stating, “The individuals who are unhappy are the drug dealers, chronic offenders, and organized crime figures contributing to disturbances and hazards in the Downtown Eastside.”
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globalnews.ca