Machete attacks. Targeted shootings. Unprovoked assaults.
These types of incidents are now commonplace throughout B.C.
How did we get here? Drugs, mostly, but also an incredibly lax justice system and well-informed perpetrators who know they’ll never be jailed or face consequences no matter what they do.
Up until two years ago, machete attacks may have occurred once or twice in a decade. Lately, there have been countless such attacks. That can’t be a coincidence and we’re seeing a bit of a copycat trend among some people intent on wreaking havoc on others.
Targeted shootings are not just a Lower Mainland problem anymore. They’re happening in many other locations. Again, this is all fueled by the drug trade and what exactly all those involved in the turf wars expect to accomplish other than death is a mystery. The worst part of it is the risks to the public.
Unprovoked assaults are perhaps the most alarming. For no reason, people have been physically assaulting and stabbing others.
It’s very frustrating for the police who are trying their best to ensure public safety. But as fast as the police can arrest any suspects, they’re back on the street.
We have to decide what we want, a drug-induced society or protect the interests of law-abiding citizens. Right now, the lawless faction is winning.
The NDP’s David Eby, who is in the leadership race to replace John Horgan, is the first person who’s actually made a decent suggestion to deal with this crisis. The idea of involuntary treatment for drug users may be controversial, but at least it could form the basis of some positive steps for the large majority in a deepening deterioration of society.
All we’ve been hearing about is a so-called ‘safe’ drug supply. Is any drug by definition, safe?
Providing free drugs or injection sites for those who can’t properly function because of heavy drug use isn’t going to help them. It should be all about treatment options first.