mission detachment quarterly report

APPENDIX A
MISSION DETACHMENT
QUARTERLY REPORT
January – April 2016
Open Council Report
MISSION DETACHMENT QUARTERLY REPORT
January – April 2016 Open
Message from the Officer in Charge
This report is the first in our series of quarterly reports designed to
maintain transparency and accountability to the District of Mission and
smaller communities served by Mission Detachment. Although quarterly
reporting is mandated by the British Columbia Municipal Policing Service
Agreement, this report goes beyond that requirement to ensure the public
is aware of police operations within their community and to clearly outline
our priorities. The report is presented in two parts, with the majority
presented in open council meetings every three months, one month after
the end of the quarter. The second part of the report deals with specific
police operations and investigations which can only be presented in closed
council due to the sensitive nature of the material, such as finances
detailed to specific projects, deployment of resources and details of public complaints against the RCMP.
We hope you will find this report informative and helpful. We appreciate your interest in our operations
and look forward to building partnerships throughout the community to protect and enhance the quality of
life in Mission and the communities we serve.
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
In 2015 our priorities focused on restructuring the detachment to meet the changing needs of our
community. Through a six member increase in staff, we created a Prolific Offender Suppression Team
(POST) to target the most prolific offenders in our community. Through some minor reorganization we also
formed the Community Support and Enforcement Team to assist the community in matters relating to
mental health, homelessness, traffic concerns, youth and overall engagement. Our general duty patrol
watches are being increased by one Sergeant to allow for more oversight and supervision of complex or
emerging files. We have also increased our ability to respond to a wide range of investigations through
increased technological support, equipment and procedures. 2015 was a productive year.
Our priorities moving into 2016 are centered around reducing the effect of crime on our community, in
particular property crime. Despite an overall drop in property crime incidents so far this year, we need to
address the perception that this type of crime is out of control. We need to work with the community to
ensure crime and suspicious activity are being reported and that members of the public are securing and
protecting their property. This year, Mission Detachment will be gearing its operations around four
priorities that were developed through an analysis of our crime trends, consultation with the community
and discussion with Mayor and Council to ensure we are focusing on the areas of greatest concern.
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Annual Performance Plan Priorities




Crime Reduction
o Property Crime
o Prolific Offenders
o Drug Prevention and Enforcement
o Serious Crimes
o Neighborhood Disputes
o Restorative Justice
Domestic Violence
o Prevention
o Reporting
o Supporting Victims
Road Safety
o Traffic Education
o Distracted Driving
o Off Road Vehicle Act
o School Zones
Our People
o Supervision
o Development
o Training
o Engagement
Mission Detachment Dash Board
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
Category
%Change Q1-Q2
2016
%Change
2015-2016
YTD June 30
%Change Q2
2015 - Q2
2016
AUTO THEFT
-22%
21%
-2%
BREAK & ENTER - BUS
-60%
76%
-11%
BREAK & ENTER - OTH
-35%
-30%
-44%
BREAK & ENTER - RES
-3%
-5%
52%
MENTAL HEALTH ACT
-4%
4%
-9%
THEFT FROM VEHICLE
-32%
23%
-24%
PERSONS VIOLENT CRIME (DV)
54%
9%
32%
32%
-12%
-3%
-10%
-1%
-18%
PERSONS VIOLENT CRIME
PROPERTY CRIME
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Mission Detachment File Breakdown by Type
Crime Map by Quarter
Density of Mission RCMP General Occurrence Files in District of Mission for Q2
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
(Files were insignificant outside area shown and did not register on density map)
Legend
Lowest Density
Highest Density
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Policing Activities
Category
2015
2016 YTD
Total Calls for Service
Founded Calls for
Service
Prisoners Lodged
Criminal Record
Checks
Digital Fingerprints
Obtained
Disclosure Requests
Statements
Transcribed for Court
17139
8360
342
377
2263
1145
N/A
246
1090
557
907
562
Notes
Does not include charges
Does not include prints taken for
court
ATIP, ICBC, Privacy Act, MCFD
Crime Prevention Office Activities
Category
2015
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
General Enquiries
Interviews/Meetings
Speed Watch Number of
Vehicles Checked
Speed Watch Warning
Letters
Vehicles Checked to
Prevent Auto Crime
Vehicles Scanned Through
Stolen Auto Recovery
2016
YTD
Notes
1248
178
Includes phone and walk in.
Full time staff and volunteer.
4692
Volunteers
134
26087
Volunteers
40029
Volunteers
Crime Reduction
Major Investigations and Initiatives
Reduce Theft of and from Motor Vehicle
Known Auto Thief Arrested - Prolific Offender Suppression Team members observed a black Honda Civic parked with
a lone male sitting in the driver seat. The driver was identified as a prolific offender in the Mission area and fled once
a vehicle stop was initiated. The vehicle was located and found to be a stolen car from earlier in the day. The driver
was eventually located and arrested. The investigation resulted in a one year jail sentence to be followed by a year of
probation.
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Theft from Auto Reductions - Prolific Offender Suppression Team members conducted surveillance on a known theft
from auto suspect. The female was followed throughout Mission attempting to break into over 50 cars. The suspect
was arrested upon gaining entry to a vehicle and held in custody. As a result of the investigation and subsequent
break and enter investigation the accused was sentenced to one year in jail.
Reduce Break and Enter
Targeting Fencing Operations - An eight month operation was conducted against a property crime suspect who was at
the centre of all things property crime related in Mission. The suspect was charged with multiple counts of
possession of stolen property and drug offences. Several associates were identified who under active investigation.
As a result of criminal enforcement, the suspect was evicted from the area and has been significantly disrupted.
Targeting Organized Crime – An investigation was opened into a costly break and enter to a jewellery store in Mission.
The suspect used sophisticated techniques to make off with over $40K of stolen items. The lone suspect was
charged with break and enter and possession of stolen property.
Target Prolific Offenders
Violent Auto Thieves – In early 2016, a vehicle was stolen from a shop in Mission. The next day it was located by the
owner of a stolen trailer that it was towing, who followed it into the Aggasiz area. Two occupants in the stolen vehicle
fired upon the complainant who was in contact with police. Mission members attended and while checking the
vehicle heard additional shots. The Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team and Air 1 attended with three Police
Dog Service teams; however the suspects escaped in another stolen vehicle. On the third day of the crime spree,
Mission members on patrol located yet another stolen vehicle and contained it with spike belts. The male and female
suspects were apprehended. The male offender was a major prolific offender in the Eastern Fraser Valley and has
been responsible for many property offences in the last year. This investigation brings to light the multi-jurisdictional
nature of many of our prolific offenders.
Operation Valley Sweep – This project was a joint operation with the Abbotsford Police Department and the RCMP
Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment. The seven member team worked throughout the eastern Fraser Valley to
target the most prolific multi-jurisdictional offenders. During the three month project, over 500 street checks, 123
self- generated files and 92 arrests were conducted. In total, the project resulted in 54 people being charged with 91
offences, 82 curfew checks conducted, 160 violation tickets issued and 33 people referred for addiction treatment.
This was an excellent example of our ability to communicate and coordinate with our partner agencies to target
prolific offenders.
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
Target Illegal Drug Operations
Is it Medical Marijuana or Trafficking? – An illegal storefront marijuana trafficking operation in Deroche was shut
down following a thorough investigation. Two suspects were charged with possession and trafficking of a controlled
drug or substance. Despite misinformation spread through social media and other conversations, the sale and
distribution of marijuana remains illegal until such a time as new legislation comes into effect. Medical marijuana is
available by prescription through mail delivery in accordance with the Medical Marijuana Purposes Regulations.
Home Invasion Targets Grow Operation – The Mission Detachment Street Crimes Unit conducted a search warrant at
a property after a violent home invasion, recovering over 800 plants. The grow operation was unlicensed and was a
distribution point for other illegal drugs. The vast majority of home invasions in Mission and surrounding areas target
marijuana grow operations, often with the use of firearms.
Dangerous Drug Operations – The Street Crimes Unit investigated four independent Marijuana Grow Operations
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within the District of Mission. These investigations led to the seizure of 2364 marijuana plants along with all of the
grow equipment. One investigation was the result of a marijuana oil extraction lab blowing up in a residential
neighbourhood. These properties have been forwarded for Civil Forfeiture consideration and are all subject to the
District of Mission’s Cost Recovery Bylaw.
Target Violent Criminals
Criminal Lifestyle – Following the assault of a male in an isolated area, a priority offender was arrested after a lengthy
investigation. The offender was linked to other high priority offenders in Mission and was arrested by the Prolific
Offender Suppression Team for aggravated assault, forcible confinement and robbery. Following his release on bail,
the same subject assaulted two other victims in an unassociated incident. The subject and associates have been
remanded into custody awaiting trial.
Reduce the Impact of Social Disorder
Neighborhood Disputes – A neighborhood feud resulted in charges being forwarded to Provincial Crown for Mischief,
Obstruction of Peace Officer, Causing a Disturbance, Assault, Public Mischief, Criminal Harassment and Harassing
Communications. These types of disputes can often spin out of control when residents do not remain calm and utilize
agencies and supports available to them to resolve disputes in a peaceful manner.
Responsibility – The Community Support and Enforcement Team worked with our local BC Liquor Inspector and
visited all licensed premises in Mission. Mission Detachment has seen a significant reduction in calls for service to
these establishments after conducting compliance meetings and working in concert with their management.
Supporting Vulnerable People – The Mission Detachment Mental Health Liaison Officer continues to work directly with
the Abbotsford/Mission Assertive Community Treatment Team from the Fraser Health Authority. She has had great
success housing clients and most recently has seen a client transition from addiction to full time employment.
Constable Hejazi makes regular visits to her clients along with probation and mental health professionals and often
attends court to support clients in seeking support and addictions treatment.
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
Stave Lake – Members of Mission Detachment continue to support efforts to revitalize the Stave Lake area for the
enjoyment of all residents, including the full range of recreational activities. Regular patrols are made on both sides
of the lake, including the Florence Lake Forest Service Road and the Sylvester Road area. Work continues to reduce
the incidents of unsafe motor vehicle operation and shooting in an unsafe manner. Over 133 Violation Tickets were
issued, mostly for Off Road Vehicle Act infractions. Patrols will continue as we work with local governments to
transition this beautiful area to a safe and enjoyable recreational destination.
Domestic Violence
Major Investigations and Initiatives
Addressing Violence - In March a violent domestic assault took place in which a husband allegedly used a knife to cut
the neck of his wife. This crime took place in front of the couple’s young children. Investigators interviewed the
children and were able to obtained detailed accounts of what had happened. In addition, the victim and suspect also
provided detailed accounts of which were further corroborated by a search warrant execution at the residence and
the recovery of forensic evidence. The suspect was charged and remains in jail. This type of violent domestic assault
is extremely traumatic for families and often has lasting effect. Mission Detachment’s focus is not only to charge
domestic violence offenders, but also to assist in preventing domestic violence. This includes providing the necessary
support to victims and offenders to end the cycle of violence.
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Project Purple Rain – Managed by the Mission Detachment Domestic Violence Coordinator, this overtime initiative
was created in 2015 through a grant from the Civil Forfeiture Office. The shifts continue due to the success of the
program in addressing victim rights. Members check bail and release conditions to ensure compliance, but also work
with offenders to address root causes of violence with a view to preventing re-occurrences.
Commitment to Ongoing Training and Quality of Investigations – The Domestic Violence Crown Counsel attended
patrol briefings to assist in developing best practices for domestic violence investigations. These meetings were an
open forum for discussion between the police and Crown Counsel and have already resulted in improved
communication and information flow.
Road Safety
Statistics (Year to Date)
Category
Stave West
Detachment Total
Seatbelt
Speeding
Use of Electronic
Device
Other
Criminal Code
Impaired
Immediate Roadside
Prohibition (Impaired)
1
5
186
184
1
61
114
540
3
1
3
80
Major Investigations and Initiatives
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
Tragic Loss – A single vehicle roll over on the Florence Lake Forest Service Road resulted in the death of a young
woman. The driver was unable to negotiate the turn and crashed into a tree before rolling over onto its roof. This type
of tragedy occurs too often in the Stave Lake area which is why it remains on our Annual Performance Plan. Poor
driving behavior is just part of the issue which includes unsafe shooting, alcohol and large bush parties resulting in
several serious calls for service per year and at least one fatal. We are working with the province to increase back
country enforcement options to prevent this type of disorder.
Enhanced Vehicle Enforcement – As part of the Annual Performance Plan, all members of the detachment are
expected to increase traffic enforcement. This is done through overtime initiatives, increased reporting and
accountability and operations targeting unsafe behaviors. In one morning alone this summer, members impounded
eleven vehicles for excessive speed over the Abbotsford/Mission Bridge.
Moving Forward
Increased Accountability
Our Annual Performance Plan holds us accountable to the community we serve. Elements of the plan have been
assigned to every supervisor in the detachment to ensure they are integral to developing solutions and maintaining
accountability.
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Community Police Advisory Committee
The Second Annual Mission Community Policing Forum was held on March 23. The event was well attended with a
broad representation from the community. The overall atmosphere was positive and most attendees understood that
there is a property crime issue In Mission. The Hub concept from Surrey and Prince Albert was presented and
received a great deal of positive feedback. We will be working with council to move this concept forward this year as
part of the detachment performance plan. The intent for 2016 is to create an advisory committee, chaired by a
Mission Council member to set priorities and address ongoing concerns in the community. The committee would be
made up of residents, business leaders and stakeholders to promote and guide public safety initiatives with support
from RCMP, Bylaws and the Mission Fire and Rescue Service.
Hub Concept
The Hub concept involves partnership with all agencies concerned with public safety. This is not just the police and
emergency services, but educational institutions, health authorities, housing, addictions treatment and others. The
intent is to ensure those in need are put in contact with the appropriate agency, before they move to crime to address
their concerns, be they mental health, addiction or other causes of homelessness and criminality. The earlier an
intervention can occur, the more chance we have of preventing crime in our community and ensuring people get the
help they need.
General Duty Staffing Analysis Committee
Having police in the right place at the right time is key to ensuring public safety. Traditional deployment models see
police officers starting their shifts en-mass at scheduled start times. GDSAC seeks to determine when the majority of
calls for service occur, to enable the detachment to have the right amount of resources in place for peak periods and
events. It has also been instrumental in other detachments in determining police resourcing need into the future.
Open Council Report| 8/15/2016
Patrolling Stave Lake West
R IC E RN S T - P OS T M E D I A N E W S
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