The Neighbours of Nob Hill Society is calling on the provincial government to change its policy surrounding the decriminalization of small amounts of illicit drugs, claiming the policy is causing more harm to people around the province.
Spokesperson Rob Hill says the crime rate has skyrocketed in the city, but he says this is only the start of a much bigger problem.
“Just a couple of weeks ago, we held a protest decrying the out-of-control crime problems in Nanaimo, knowing more will come,” Rice says. “ When will the provincial government admit this trial program is causing people to hurt themselves, each other, and us at times?”
Rice says the association is calling on the owner of the Victoria Road building to provide safer living conditions to prevent the congregation of violent offenders from preying on vulnerable clients.
Amendments to the controlled drugs and substances act allow for the removal of criminal penalties for the possession of small amounts of illicit substances for personal use by people over 18 years of age.
Since then, several community groups have been formed to protest government inaction around public safety.
