To help officers get the message across that gang life is a dead end, the Province is providing the Kelowna RCMP with a forfeited sports car to reach local youth in an unconventional way.

A 2004 Nissan 350Z, courtesy of B.C’s Civil Forfeiture Office (CFO), was unveiled today at the RCMP headquarters in Kelowna. The vehicle, which was previously involved in criminal activity, has been “wrapped” with messaging and graphics that highlight the dangers of gang life, organized crime and the drug trade. This rolling public service message will be seen driving around Kelowna for the next two years making stops at festivals, beaches, parades and events throughout the summer and all year long.

To see photos of the vehicle:
https://flic.kr/p/oib1HP
https://flic.kr/p/oenF1A

Quotes:

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton -

“The promise of a glamorous life and flashy cars lures many young people into crime, but we need them to understand that this lifestyle is dangerous and often ends badly. This vehicle is a testament to that, as it was involved with both weapons and drugs in its previous life. Now that it’s been reformed, it can turn to a life of good and help the Kelowna RCMP connect with youth who are at risk, and ensure young people are aware of the dangers that are involved in a life of crime.”

Superintendent Tim Head, acting district officer in charge, South East District RCMP -

“This car brings a strong message to those who think the gang lifestyle is exciting. If you are involved in criminal activity, your toys and possessions can be treated as proceeds of crime and could be subject to forfeiture. We look forward to showcasing the car and its message throughout Kelowna and all of the South East District this summer and over the course of the next two years.”

Quick Facts:

• Access to the vehicle was made possible through the government’s successful civil forfeiture program which continues to undermine the profit motive behind unlawful activity by taking away the tools and proceeds of crime.
• This is the third vehicle the CFO has provided to aid in anti-gang public engagement campaigns. Earlier this year a forfeited BMW SUV was made available to the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) and, in 2011, a forfeited Hummer was provided to the Abbotsford Police Department.
• Now eight years old, B.C.’s civil forfeiture program has obtained forfeiture of approximately 200 vehicles - most with links to drug, gang or organized crime. Nearly all vehicles forfeited to government are sold via online auctions open to public bidding.
• The Kelowna RCMP will cover all maintenance costs of the forfeited vehicle during the two-year period, after which it will be returned to the Province and sold via auction.
• Since the Civil Forfeiture Office (CFO) became active in 2006, it has taken in approximately $47 million and has returned more than $16 million from successful forfeiture actions in the form of grants to crime prevention programs, victims of fraud and phoney investment schemes, and victim services programs.
• The Province invests $22 million a year in combating gun, gangs and organized crime.

Media Contacts:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 213-3602