Prince George RCMP Superintendent Darin Rappel is beefing up the detachment’s presence downtown.
A dedicated team of eight downtown zone members are being assigned to address street disorder including shoplifting, mischief, arson, disturbances, assaults and overdose assists with Emergency Health Services and drug-related offences.
Two members will be on each shift, seven days a week, supplemented by overtime shifts according to the City of Prince George.
A zero tolerance policy for fire-related incidents, including mischief and arson will be implemented.
The RCMP will coordinate with City bylaw services and Prince George Fire Rescue where possible.
The move comes after city senior leadership and members of Council met with Glen Lewis, Assistant Deputy Minister and Director of Policing and Law Enforcement; John Brewer, Assistant Commissioner for the BC RCMP; and North District Chief Superintendent Ken Floyd last week.
The visit included a downtown site tour and roundtable discussions to highlight ongoing public safety concerns, staffing challenges, and opportunities for the province to provide support for treatment facilities, drop-in centres, and other services for vulnerable residents.
City Manager Walter Babicz said the discussions with provincial and RCMP leadership were constructive and underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue.
“This was not a one-off conversation,” said Babicz. “Maintaining communication between the City and the province remains a top priority, and we are committed to seeing tangible results from our advocacy efforts.
“We know residents continue to feel frustrated by public safety issues, particularly downtown, and we want to assure the community that addressing these concerns is a high priority.”
City officials are coordinating with the province, including Premier David Eby, to arrange a visit to continue the dialogue.
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