THE New Westminster Police Department has launched a temporary redeployment plan to enhance public safety in Downtown New Westminster. This response comes after several recent incidents of concern including two random stranger assaults, a stabbing, and year-to-date increase in assaults, robberies, thefts and mischiefs. Residents and visitors can anticipate seeing an increased police presence.

“We have seen a number of serious incidents Downtown in the last few weeks and we have been hearing from many members of the public and businesses community who have concerns about safety in the area,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “We will be redeploying members to focus on the Downtown core to ensure that public safety remains a priority.”

“Public safety is one of the cornerstones of a thriving community, and it is my duty to take actions that enhance the safety of residents and visitors to New Westminster,” said Chief Constable Paul Hyland. “These recent incidents and general crime increases in the Downtown area are concerning to me, and this plan is a direct and focused response and a sign of our ongoing commitment to community safety.”

Members of the Crime Reduction and Gang Suppression Units have been deployed throughout the Downtown neighbourhood, conducting uniform and plain clothes patrols on bikes, on foot, and in vehicles. This enhanced deployment model is designed to complement the ongoing efforts of front-line patrol officers and will be continuously evaluated to ensure it remains responsive to community needs, police said.