The Golden/Field RCMP detachment responded to 238 calls in the month of January, according to detachment commander Sgt. Betty Watson.
Of those calls, 36 were traffic related calls, 19 were property offences, 11 persons offences (ie: assault, threats) and 11 collisions, as well as six impaired driving investigations and six COVID related reports of non-compliance.
Watson says traffic related calls are down this month in comparison to January of last year, citing the possibility the non-essential travel order has contributed to the lower than usual numbers by reducing travel and traffic.
The process by which individuals can report COVID non-compliance can vary depending on the situation, says Watson. If it involves a disturbance, she says that the RCMP are the best bet.
If the event is not in progress or not likely to involve a disturbance, the town bylaw officer is the most appropriate, able to apply their discretion to involve the RCMP if assistance is required.
For anything related to the workplace, WorkSafeBC is also appropriate.
The average fine for failing to comply with COVID restrictions is $230 and can range from failure to wear a mask, failing to comply with direction, as well as abusive or belligerent behaviour. Anyone organizing a COVID non-compliant event can be fined up to $2,300.
Of the six impaired driving investigations, four resulted in Immediate Roadside Prohibitions, which suspends the right to drive for 90 days and has the individuals car impounded 30 days at their expense.
IRPs are given if police think you blew a “fail” on a breathalyzer test or on refusal to blow. You can be made to take a responsible driver program, which can cost an additional $930.
Property offences are described as break and enters, thefts and mischiefs to property.
Looking forward to the year ahead, Watson says the detachment is looking forward to continuing to build on their collaborative work with community partners such as BC Conservation, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and the town bylaw department to coordinate enforcement and public education.
“We certainly are more affective when we have a coordinated approach and Golden has a lot of people who are invested and committed to this community,” said Watson. “Police work is not always about arresting the perpetrator.
“We are often called to intervene in non criminal matters, providing support to victims or persons in a mental health crisis.”
Watson says RCMP meet regularly with service providers in the community to identify potential gaps in services and ways to enhance overlapping mandates.
