Summary
This report proposes a new approach to street crime and disorderly conduct in downtown Vancouver. Chronic offenders who have substance abuse problems and mental disorders are responsible for much of the street crime in this city. It is abundantly clear that the justice system alone cannot effectively respond to these problems, as it is not equipped and was never intended to address the underlying causes of chronic offending. This report summarizes the research and analysis that led to the Street Crime Working Group recommendations.