“David Eby has normalized hard drug use, ignored the diversion of so-called safe supply to criminal gangs, and fostered a justice system that allows repeat violent offenders to face very few consequences. People with mental health and addictions issues are set up for failure, and the parole system is broken, as we have seen once again with the tragedy today. This will only improve with a change in government that will place the well-being of our citizens first” - Melissa De Genova, Conservative Party of British Columbia candidate for Vancouver-Yaletown
September 4th, Vancouver, BC: Melissa De Genova, Conservative Party of British Columbia candidate for Vancouver-Yaletown, and John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, have issued a joint statement condemning the horrific stranger assaults that occurred today near the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver. The attacks are the latest in a series of violent incidents that have plagued the city’s core, which both De Genova and Rustad attribute to the failures of the current government.
“Just over a week ago, there was a shooting and murder in Gastown, and before that, we saw a triple stabbing on Granville Street,” said De Genova. “David Eby has normalized hard drug use, ignored the diversion of so-called safe supply to criminal gangs, and fostered a justice system that allows repeat violent offenders to face very few consequences. People with mental health and addictions issues are set up for failure, and the parole system is broken, as we have seen once again with the tragedy today. This will only improve with a change in government that will place the well-being of our citizens first.”
John Rustad echoed De Genova’s concerns, blaming Premier Eby and his government for creating an environment where violent crime is becoming increasingly common. “These latest assaults and killings are not isolated incidents—they are part of a broader pattern of lawlessness that has taken hold in our communities because of David Eby’s weak stance on crime and public safety,” said Rustad. “The BC NDP has prioritized the rights of criminals over the safety of our citizens, and it’s the people of British Columbia who are paying the price.”
De Genova raised critical questions about the handling of these violent offenders and the lack of support systems in place. “How many times has this individual been through the criminal justice system? How many police officers and resources were required to respond to these violent incidents? Has this individual received appropriate wrap-around support in the past? If not, why not? At least one person lost their life today because the system failed them.”
Rustad called on all levels of government to step up and support law enforcement and public safety measures. “Our police officers are doing their best under incredibly difficult circumstances, but they are being let down by a government that refuses to take decisive action against violent offenders,” Rustad stated. “We need to restore accountability in our justice system, support our police, and prioritize the safety of our communities over the interests of repeat offenders.”
De Genova emphasized that Vancouver residents are increasingly concerned about the safety of their everyday spaces. “People are worried about the safety of their parks, playgrounds, and streets. We have to keep violent criminals off the streets and ensure that our public spaces are safe for everyone to enjoy. Continued drug use and violence cannot be normalized under another term of the David Eby NDP.”
Rustad concluded with a call for change, urging British Columbians to vote for a government that puts public safety first. “The BC NDP has proven time and again that they cannot keep our communities safe. It’s time for real leadership that will stand up for British Columbians, hold criminals accountable, and make our streets safe again.”
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For more information, please contact [email protected].
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