For Immediate Release:
SURREY (September 1, 2022) – As incidents of random violent crime become more common in the Lower Mainland, BC Liberal Candidate for Surrey South Elenore Sturko is calling out the NDP for failing to take action on prolific criminal offenders.
“120 days ago, then-Attorney General David Eby promised to take action on prolific offenders once the NDP-commissioned Lepard report was complete. The deadline for that report has now come and gone and there’s been zero action from the NDP. With random violent crime assaults continuing every day on our streets, it’s shameful that this NDP government continues to do nothing,” said Sturko.
“The number one responsibility of any government is to keep people safe. You only have to turn on the news each night to know the NDP are failing to do this, especially when it comes to ensuring vulnerable populations have easy access to mental health or addictions resources. When it comes to getting the basics right, they’re failing on all fronts.”
Over the last half-decade of NDP government, crime has continued to escalate in Surrey. In the first quarter of 2022 alone, South Surrey saw a 40 per cent increase in property crime.
“As a frontline police officer, I have personally seen the impact the increase in violent crime has had on our communities. But what is really upsetting is the NDP’s continued failure to tackle the issue in any meaningful way. It’s because of the direction set by David Eby that many British Columbians no longer feel safe,” added Sturko.
For months the BC Urban Mayors Caucus has been calling on the NDP to take immediate steps to help deal with repeat offenders. The BC Liberals are calling on the NDP to immediately implement those recommendations, which include:
- Stricter bail conditions and consequences for chronic repeat offenders;
- Stronger consideration for maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice in bail and charge assessment policies;
- Increase investment in the BC Prosecution Service;
- Implement more Community Courts throughout the province; and
- Review the prosecution service’s charge assessment and full disclosure policies.
“After two terms and more than half a decade in power, it’s time for David Eby and the NDP to wake up and take immediate action to deal with repeat offenders. No more delays and no more studies. People deserve action right away. We’ve got to get back to getting the basics right,” added Sturko.
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Media Contact:
Stephanie Marshall-White
Campaign Manager
778-990-4785
