British Columbia police report declines in violent crime despite rising overall rates

Police departments in British Columbia are reporting mixed trends regarding crime rates. In Abbotsford, Police Chief Colin Watson noted that while the overall crime rate has seen a slow climb over the last five years, violent crimes have decreased by seven to eight percent in 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. Watson attributed some of the statistical increases to improved community connections and increased calls for service driven by rapid population growth.

In Vancouver, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) reported that while overall crime is up compared to 2025, serious offenses—including murder, attempted murder, sexual offenses, and various types of break-and-enters—are declining. The city's Crime Severity Index (CSI) has dropped from 92.6 in 2023 to 83.5. Senior Deputy Chief Constable Howard Chow stated that the decline in severe crime is a result of proactive policing and investments in new technologies and strategies.