The B.C. government has declared Nov. 1-7, 2012, "Crime Prevention Week" and Justice Minister and Attorney General Shirley Bond is encouraging British Columbians to stand up against crime in neighbourhoods throughout the province.

Crime Prevention Week is an opportunity for families, schools, businesses and neighbourhoods to work together to create safer streets in every community. It is also a chance to acknowledge the many dedicated British Columbians who make significant contributions to crime prevention and community safety.

One of the highlights of the week is the Ministry of Justice Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards that will be handed out tomorrow. The awards honour citizens who have demonstrated how commitment, perseverance and innovation in crime prevention can build safe communities where families can thrive.

Throughout the week the Ministry of Justice will partner with crime prevention, consumer protection and law enforcement agencies to provide safety and crime prevention tips to British Columbians.

Quotes:

Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -

"We all have a role to play in keeping our communities, homes and families safe. I encourage everyone to find a way to make your own neighbourhood safer - whether that's by getting involved in your local Block Watch program, teaming up with local businesses to start an anti-graffiti program, or by standing up to bullying at your school or workplace. By being informed and working together, we can reduce crime and create safer, more livable communities."

Carolyn Sinclair, executive director, B.C. Crime Prevention Association -

"Keeping communities safe requires collective efforts dedicated to reduction and prevention of crime and trauma. It is our hope Crime Prevention Week 2012 will inspire and empower communities and people to seek an initiative that engages and promotes crime prevention from their home and business to yours."

Quick Facts:

• Countless British Columbians are involved in volunteer crime prevention activities throughout the province each year.

• The B.C. government provided $6.1 million in civil forfeiture proceeds in 2011-12 to support local crime prevention and remediation efforts throughout the province.

• In addition to civil forfeiture, government provides more than $375,000 in direct funding for crime prevention programs each year.

• Statistics show that overall the B.C. crime rate is the lowest it has been in nearly 35 years.

Learn More:

You can find more information about Crime Prevention Week at: www.bccpa.org

Additional resources on crime prevention and personal and community safety are available on the JusticeBC website at: www.justicebc.ca/en/cjis/crime/online_resources.html

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 356-6961