One month into the Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program (C-STEP), Terrace RCMP are reporting early signs of success in reducing crime and improving public safety.
Through C-STEP funding, local officers have been working additional shifts aimed at proactive and preventative policing. In the first four weeks, those extra patrols led to 64 arrests—many involving repeat offenders who were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time.
Police say these arrests likely prevented further criminal activity. Officers also seized a number of dangerous weapons, including long swords, throwing axes, brass knuckles, and bear spray. A variety of illicit drugs were taken off the streets as well, including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, along with contraband tobacco and tools used for break-ins.
To date, 11 charges have been laid, and more cases are under investigation. In a step toward rehabilitation, one repeat offender has already been referred to support services with Northern Health and social development agencies.
The RCMP say C-STEP patrols will continue through mid-October. The initiative is part of a broader strategy focused not just on enforcement, but also on long-term solutions to help reduce crime and support community wellbeing.
