The city and province say they will continue to crack down on increased crime in Winnipeg, after the initial success of the Violent Crime and Retail Theft (VCRT) initiative.
The project will be extended through the summer, Manitoba Justice Minister Matt Wiebe said Wednesday, with an additional $1.1 million in provincial funds earmarked for the project.
After four weeks of increased patrols in Osborne Village, the Exchange District, and the West End, police say the program has led to a total of 203 arrests over more than 2,000 engagements, as well as the recovery of approximately $9,000 in stolen items.
“When businesses open their doors every morning, they shouldn’t have to worry that they be faced with rampant theft from those who disregard the law,” said Wiebe.
“Our government will always offer compassionate approaches to those struggling with addictions and mental health issues, but we will not cede any ground on public safety.”
The funding comes on the heels of Tuesday’s announcement of $1.5 million in provincial dollars for the downtown community safety action plan.
Winnipeg police Insp. Eric Luke, central district commander, said the initiative has been a positive one not only for the community, but within the police service itself.
Get breaking National news
“This initiative has meant a tremendous amount for our members,” Luke said.
“They’ve come t0o me and thanked me for the opportunity to get out of their cars and interact with members of the community… and listen to them outside of an immediate crisis.”
The new $1.1 million from the province includes funding for additional general patrol units to focus on areas of repeat crime and targeted retail theft, the province said, as well as engagement with business organizations and leaders with the goal of improving safety.
- 2 kids from northern Alberta still missing, mom and her partner wanted for abduction
- Rare mistrial declared on Frank Stronach sexual assault conviction: defence
- Convoy organizer Pat King guilty of intimidation, Appeal Court rules
- Laos charges in deadly tourist methanol poisoning not harsh enough: parents
Winnipeg mayor Scott Gillingham said the extension of the partnership between Winnipeg police and government will provide “crucial support” for local businesses.
In a statement Wednesday, business owner Brian Scharfstein said the increased police involvement is beginning to alter people’s views on the downtown.
“Perception is reality, and the reality is that the perception about downtown Winnipeg is changing right now,” said Scharfstein, owner of Canadian Footwear.
“Since the Winnipeg police increased their presence downtown, we are absolutely seeing a reduction in incidents. These officers that we’re seeing are bringing trust and confidence to the people working in the area and the general public.
“I’ve heard from other business owners, and they are also very pleased with what they’re seeing and feeling positive about what’s going on owing to this initiative.”
In order for this positive impact to continue, Scharfstein said, the initiative needs to continue into the future.
Comments
Comments closed.
Due to the sensitive and/or legal subject matter of some of the content on globalnews.ca, we reserve the ability to disable comments from time to time.
Please see our Commenting Policy for more.