Police Respond To ‘Dangerous City’ Label on Vernon

A spokesperson for the Vernon RCMP says they don’t consider Vernon to be a dangerous city.

An article in Maclean’s magazine had Vernon as the 9th most dangerous place in Canada, based on police crime stats and the seriousness and volume of offences.

Constable Kelly Brett says an extra two or three violent crime files over a two week period can greatly increase a smaller city’s rating.

“Obviously we’re committed to keeping our community safe. I believe Vernon is a safe community. I don’t have any issues with living here, and I’m raising a family here. I think the RCMP does a great job in communicating that to the community and getting out there and doing their front line  policing,” Brett, the detachment’s new media relations officer, told the media.

Brett says she doesn’t have concerns about safety in Vernon.

“Would I consider Vernon a violent city? No. Do the numbers make it look like that? A little bit. Do I have concerns? No.”

As for a spike in B and E’s contributing to the ranking, Brett says police need to be more diligent to educate the community on locking their valuables, be it in their vehicles, or in sheds and garages.

“What it comes down to is educating the public on keeping their items secure, and installing home security systems and things like that,” adds Brett.