The City of Dawson Creek has seen a notable uptick in drug-related incidents according to the latest crime statistics released by the RCMP.
February’s report highlights an increase in drug possession and trafficking cases amid a slight overall decline in calls for service compared to the same period last year.
Last month, the Dawson Creek RCMP fielded 1,200 calls for service, a decline from 1,318 during February 2024. Of these, 214 incidents were reported in rural areas, including Pouce Coupe. Drug possession cases surged to seven in last month, up from two incidents reported in January. During a presentation of last months report to city council, Staff Sergeant Scott Hughes did warn of an increase in part to changing provincial decriminalization laws.
Impaired driving cases also experienced an increase, with 28 in February. However, the report offered a silver lining: there were no reported break-ins at businesses last month, and vehicle thefts saw a decrease, falling to 14 incidents.
The report notes that property crime and mental health-related issues continue to make up the majority of calls for service. Assistance files continue to consume much of the detachment’s resources, according to the report.
Police interactions involving the city’s homeless population dropped to seven, down from 22 in February of the previous year.
February’s report is set to be presented to Dawson Creek City Council during a meeting on March 24, 2025.