July31,2025
RED FM News Desk
A recent surge in violent incidents involving youth—including assaults, thefts, and a fatal stabbing—has prompted Abbotsford police to raise concerns about growing safety risks in the community.
“We’re frequently seeing groups of youth causing trouble and making poor choices, often influenced by alcohol or street-style gatherings,” Sgt. Paul Walker told CTV News.
“We’ve observed an increase in street fights and robberies,” Walker added.
In May, a 15-year-old boy was fatally stabbed at a local park.
To address the issue, Walker explained that the police Youth Squad has launched a summer-long strategy focused on intervention, enforcement, and strengthening partnerships with local organizations.
The initiative includes weekly outreach visits to high-risk youth, supported by external groups. Police are also collaborating with liquor retailers and law enforcement agencies across the Lower Mainland to prevent further violence and enhance intelligence gathering.
“The goal is to reduce violence and ensure public safety in Abbotsford,” said Walker. “We want to send a clear message that such behavior won’t be tolerated, and those involved will face consequences.”
Officers will increase their presence at key spots like shopping centres, bus exchanges, parks, and youth hubs through both uniformed and plainclothes patrols. Bike units will also be more active to boost police visibility.
Advocates note that these issues extend beyond Abbotsford, especially regarding organized crime.
“It’s happening throughout the Lower Mainland,” said Kal Dosanjh, a veteran Vancouver police officer and founder/CEO of the KidsPlay Foundation, which works to keep kids away from gangs, violence, and drugs.
“These gangs—some from Toronto and Montreal—exploit these youth like disposable resources,” Dosanjh explained.
He noted that many students coming from war-torn countries bring significant trauma, having grown up amid violence. “Many have never had a safe space before,” he said.
Dosanjh also pointed out a rise in youth from privileged backgrounds joining gangs, drawn by the allure of power, violence, intimidation, and money despite having plenty already.
Abbotsford police say their new strategy aims not only to deter violence but also to address underlying social issues contributing to youth crime.
The department encourages parents to maintain open communication with their children, especially if they notice troubling behavior changes.
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