We have been alerted that there have been several incidences downtown that left our members feeling unsafe and exposed. Wes Olson of the RCMP responded below.

. . . .

I’m not sure if the downtown business association is familiar with CPTED (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design).  There are many things a business/homeowner can do to mitigate vandalism and thefts.  Surveillance cameras can catch the act but unless there is a notifying feature on the camera that can alert the person monitoring the system then it is evidence gathering after the fact.  I personally use Arlo Security cameras at my residence which I can monitor on my cell phone and receive alerts when motion triggers the camera to record.  The cameras can be purchased at Best Buy or Costco when they have them.  They work off a rechargeable battery and wi-fi so they can be mounted anywhere and are of good quality.  They have built-in night vision so darkness is not a problem.

Trimming back hedges, removing big objects and improving lighting around buildings are other suggestions.  Roving security patrols are also helpful.  I believe there are security companies locally in the Cowichan Valley that offer this service.  Police patrols can supplement the security patrols when we have time.  Our ability to complete pro-active patrols is dependant upon response to Priority Calls for service and a member’s workload.

One must also be cautious of unreal expectations of what the court will do with an offender if we are successful in charging somebody.  Unfortunately, property crime is not given the same weight as a person’s crime and generally, the punishment does not fit the crime especially in the eyes of the victim.  Our priority offenders know the legal system well and are not fearful of it.

In my 31 years of policing, I have found that making things difficult on an offender is the best way to prevent criminal activity in specific areas.  Offenders are creatures of habit and it’s like having a good fishing hole.  People will keep going back to the same locations until all the fish are gone and then move onto a new target-rich environment.  Locking doors/windows and having a strong covering like metal roller shades or bars, having a security system (alarm and cameras), having a well-lit area and nothing to hide behind are all things that make it difficult for an offender.  They will move on to easier targets especially if their chances of getting caught are greater in one area over another.

Regards,
Wes Olson

W.W. OLSEN, S/Sgt
Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge
Ladysmith Detachment
PO Box 260, 320 6^th Ave
Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A2
Tel: 250-245-2215
Fax: 250-245-6060
Wes [dot] olsen [at] rcmp-grc [dot] gc [dot] ca

The safe disposal of needles, otherwise known as sharps, can prevent others from accidentally getting hurt.

Sometimes discarded needles are found in public areas in the immediate vicinity of a business. Together, we can all do our part to safely clean up sharps, or inform the proper authorities who can assist you.

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