Kamloops is no longer at the top of Canada’s crime rankings, a title it reluctantly held in previous years. But while local officials welcome the change, many say the numbers don’t tell the full story — and that street-level concerns, repeat offenders, and social disorder continue to challenge public safety.

According to new 2024 police-reported crime statistics from Statistics Canada, the city has seen a significant drop in both its crime rate and Crime Severity Index (CSI), signaling a shift that local officials and business leaders say is promising — but not yet a reason for celebration.

In 2024, Kamloops recorded 10,546 criminal incidents per 100,000 residents, a 19% decrease from 2023. The city’s CSI — which reflects both the volume and severity of crime — dropped 21%, from 165.3 to 129.9. Kamloops now ranks second nationally in crime severity, falling behind Chilliwack, B.C.

The drop comes amid broader improvements across British Columbia, where the provincial CSI declined by 11% — the largest drop in the country — reaching its lowest level in six years.

A Community-Wide Effort

“This is encouraging,” said Howie Reimer, Executive Director of the Downtown Kamloops Business Improvement Association (BIA). “But we also need to be cautious and make sure that these numbers aren’t falling just because people are getting tired of reporting crime.”

Reimer credited the local RCMP, led by Superintendent Jeff Pelley, as well as community services, advocacy efforts from business associations, and partnerships with social agencies for helping shift the trend.

“We are seeing fewer commercial break-ins anecdotally, and the community services program seems to be gaining traction,” Reimer said. “But even so, it’s not much comfort to those who’ve still been victimized.”

Reimer pointed to ongoing issues around homelessness, open drug use, and visible street disorder — concerns that businesses say continue to drive customers away from downtown.

“It’s not good for business to have people using drugs openly or sleeping in doorways,” he said. “The opioid crisis is in its second decade, and we need much more from the provincial and federal governments on housing, treatment, and mental health supports.”

Crime Down, But Perceptions Lag

City Councillor Katie Neustaeter, who chairs Kamloops’ Safety and Security Select Committee, echoed that sentiment.

“I’m pleased with the downward trend — it shows that the strategies we’ve implemented are working,” she said. “But the data also reflects a reality that people still don’t feel safe. Crime is changing in nature, and so is the social disruption we’re dealing with.”

Neustaeter highlighted several local initiatives, including the expansion of 24/7 Community Service Officers, enhanced neighborhood watch programs, and recent investments in complex care housing and frontline support teams.

She also took aim at Canada’s current bail system, calling for an end to so-called “catch and release” practices that see repeat offenders return to the streets the same day they’re arrested.

“When someone commits a crime, is apprehended, and then shows up back at the same business later that day, that’s not justice. It’s demoralizing for everyone,” Neustaeter said.

A Provincial Shift — With Caution

The improvement in Kamloops reflects a larger provincial trend. British Columbia saw violent firearm offences drop by 20%, homicides by 24%, robbery by 8%, and mischief by 4% in 2024.

“This progress reflects the continued efforts by the B.C. government, First Nations, police services, local governments, and community organizations to build safer communities,” said B.C.’s Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Nina Krieger, in a statement. “But we know we have more work to do.”

Krieger credited recent provincial initiatives, including targeted enforcement against repeat violent offenders, integrated response teams, and expanded mental-health and addiction support.

“These numbers are promising,” she said. “But if you’re the victim of a theft or assault, stats don’t make you feel safer. We’re committed to doing more.”

What’s Next for Kamloops?

Despite the positive shift, local officials remain focused on ensuring that crime prevention efforts continue to grow — and that the city avoids concentrating social services in a way that burdens specific neighborhoods.

“We don’t want another situation like Victoria Street West,” said Neustaeter, referencing past issues with concentrated homelessness and social services in one part of the city. “Balance is key. No single area should bear the brunt of this.”

She pointed to ongoing conversations about how to diversify housing and support services across the city and acknowledged concerns from residents in areas like the Tranquille corridor.

“There’s progress. But there’s also pressure. We’re engaging with community stakeholders to make sure future planning supports both safety and vibrancy,” she said.

Reimer agrees — and urges the business community to remain vigilant.

“Keep reporting. Stay engaged. This is a whole-of-community challenge,” he said.