Government of Yukon
News archives
FOR RELEASE #08-289
November 19, 2008
Government Releases Third Quarter Scan Statistics
WHITEHORSE – Recent statistics show that Yukoners are working to reduce criminal activity by accessing the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) Act, Justice Minister Marian C. Horne said.
Third quarter statistics for 2008 show the public made 37 complaints on 32 properties from July 1 to Sept. 30, 2008. These complaints resulted in eight evictions, one voluntary cessation of activities and three warnings.
“This legislation, combined with initiatives such as the Street Crime Reduction Team, Crime Stoppers, Citizens on Patrol and Neighbourhood Watch, are having a real impact on our community,” Horne said. “Together Yukoners can send a message that illegal activity will not be tolerated.”
The Yukon government identified an additional $69,000 that, subject to legislative approval, will provide the SCAN office with an additional half-time investigator and investigative equipment.
“We committed to creating safer Yukon communities and we are delivering on that promise,” Horne added.
A confidential public complaint process allows Yukoners to report ongoing, harmful activity occurring in their neighbourhood, including drug use and distribution, unlawful production and distribution of alcohol, and prostitution.
“If an investigation confirms illegal activity, a variety of remedies are available under the act, ranging from informal responses to landlord assisted evictions, all the way to a court application to have a person removed from their home,” Horne said.
There have been 267 complaints about activities on 210 locations, resulting in 36 evictions and 11 warnings since the SCAN office opened in December 2006.
Residents have voluntarily ceased their illegal activities in 26 other locations.
Yukoners are reminded that they can call the SCAN hotline at 456-SCAN (7226) in Whitehorse or toll-free at 1-866-530-SCAN (7226) in the communities if they witness ongoing prostitution, drug activity or bootlegging in their neighbourhood.
-30-
| Contact: | |
| Matthew Grant Cabinet Communications 867-633-7961 matthew.grant@gov.yk.ca |
Chris Ross Communications, Justice 867-393-7081 chris.ross@gov.yk.ca |