A soaring trend in property crime is striking the city, as delineated by figures unveiled at the recent Saskatoon Board of Police Commissioners board meeting. The alarming statistics suggest that property crimes have experienced a stark surge of 20 per cent over the past five years.
The vast majority of these crimes show a marked correlation with homelessness and addiction issues, remarked Police Chief Troy Cooper during an address to reporters following the meeting. Surprisingly, a silver lining presented itself as the rate of break-ins at homes trailed off by seven per cent compared to the five-year average, contrastingly, non-residential properties witnessed an inflation of 25 per cent in the same period.
The most significant rise was seen in the category of theft exceeding $5,000, which skyrocketed by a whopping 123 per cent over the last half-decade. Chief Cooper expressed particular concern over the escalating trend of shoplifting, especially in recent years. He cited common offenses such as theft from motor vehicles and outbuilding break-ins as typical illicit means pursued by addicts craving immediate financial relief.
An anonymous city property owner disclosed deteriorating conditions on their property, including more frequent broken windows, acts of arson, and instances of public nuisance such as urination and defecation. They are now shouldering increased security expenses and voicing the need for more robust law enforcement, specifically concerning drug-related crimes.
“Among the concerns I frequently encounter during my conversations with fellow business owners and locals, is the desire for police to carry out thorough investigations and take firm action, implementing charges where necessary,” explained Brent Penner, Executive Director of Downtown YXE.
The police board has since implored the Saskatoon Police Service to delve deeper into the plight faced by the city’s most susceptible demographic, which remains inadequately serviced by existing social services. The goal is to gain a clearer understanding of the issue in a bid to engineer a most fitting resolution.
