The Abbotsford Police Department has started a new program to help individuals currently involved in, or being recruited into, extortion-related violence.
Project Disengage is being described by the department as an “intervention and exit program.”
“Many youths, young adults and individuals are being drawn into these crimes, often lured by promises of quick financial gain or pressured by difficult circumstances,” the APD states in a press release issued on Thursday (Dec. 4).
“Organized crime groups and traffickers have long exploited vulnerable individuals for criminal activities. Participation in extortion can lead to severe legal consequences and lasting harm – not only to those involved but to the safety of the entire community.”
The press release states that the initiative includes specialized programs for youth, young adults and individuals at risk of gang involvement, “radicalization to violence” and other criminal behaviours.
Police Chief Colin Watson said enforcement isn’t enough to curb extortion-related issues.
“Real change happens when we think outside the box and offer a way out for those caught in the cycle of violence,” he said.
Mayor Ross Siemens said Project Disengage is the first initiative of its kind in the province.
“Often it’s vulnerable people being exploited and coerced into this violent and dangerous activity, and we are proud of the Abbotsford Police Department for taking proactive action to support those who need a way out,” he said.
Anyone seeking assistance is asked to contact the Project Disengage hotline at 778-880-6610 or visit abbypd.ca/extortion-project-disengage.
Abbotsford is among the Lower Mainland communities that have been plagued by extortion-related incidents – including threats to individuals and businesses and several shootings – over the past two years.
The incidents have mainly targeted the South Asian community.
The APD announced in September that it was launching a task force – called Operation Community Shield – in response to the almost 40 extortion-related incidents that had occurred over the last two years.
Two days later, Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger announced that an RCMP-led provincial police task force had been set up “solely dedicated” to tackling the extortion crisis plaguing South Asian businesses.
The City of Surrey also addressed the issue, offering a $250,000 reward for information leading to convictions in the Surrey extortion cases.
And at the end of November, the provincial and federal governments announced $1 million in funding through victim services to support victims of extortion.
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