BC RCMP Raises Another $230 Million in Funding from State Governments

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The state government plans to spend an additional $230 million on BC RCMP services over the next three years as part of its public safety plan.

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BC Prime Minister David Evey and Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said on Wednesday that the funds would be used to fill shortages in regional RCMP detachments in areas with fewer than 5,000 people.

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This will allow state-funded regional RCMP units to reach the fully licensed staffing level of 2,602 personnel.

The funds will also be used to hire additional officers in specialized departments such as the Major Crimes Unit, Child Sexual Exploitation Unit and BC Highway Patrol.

“This funding will support adequate and effective levels of police force throughout the state, particularly in rural, remote and indigenous communities, and in various specialized teams investigating and preventing complex, violent and organized crime. We will ensure operations and law enforcement.The funds will also provide support to prosecutors and probation officers regarding violent high-risk offenders,” Eby’s statement read.

Mr Farnworth said planning for the increased investment took two years.

“Continued core funding will provide a strong base for police resources, allowing police to focus on violent crime and other pressing public safety issues, while helping to create safer communities,” said Farnworth. It allows us to work on implementing action plans and other public safety initiatives.”