Violence, street crime down in Vancouvers DTES due to task force, police say – BC [Video]

Vancouver police say violence and street crime have dropped in the Downtown Eastside since the launch of a dedicated police task force.

Task Force Barrage was launched three months ago to target criminals and criminal activity in the Downtown Eastside.

“While we’re making life harder for violent offenders and organized criminals, we’re also working with the community to improve safety and build relationships,” Insp. Gary Hiar, commanding officer of Task Force Barrage, said in a statement.

“This work will require a sustained effort and there’s still a long road ahead.”

According to the Vancouver police, since the launch of the task force, officers have seized 745 weapons including 79 guns (14 real/65 replica); made 414 warrant arrests (five a day) and made 258 reports to Crown counsel for charges.

Teams have been deployed to Gastown, Chinatown and Hastings Street, police said, and officers also conducted co-ordinated investigations to target violent offenders and organized criminals, working with staff …