Replying to The myth of Gang violence

As many of you have been seeing recently, allegedly there has been a rash of gang violence in Vancouver and across Canada.  The Tory government is set to deliver new legislation with harsher punishment and enhanced policing powers.  However, the contention that 'gang violence' is on the rise is a deliberately construed misconception designed to enhance policing powers and drawn sensationalist media attention.

The fact is, violent crime in Canada is falling.  Stats Can shows the rate of violent crimes decreasing across the board (except level 2&3 assault) with the homicide rate dropping 14% over the last decade.  Overall, violent crimes decreased 5% over the last decade.

'Gangs' is merely a sensationalist word rich in violent connotations that is being used to prejudice public sentiment into false action.  Criminal associations are nothing new and social groupings is a commonality of criminals and honest people.  'Gangs' is being used to sells newspapers and increase RCMP funding.

While reducing crime is generally a worthwhile objective, I find it distasteful when sensationalism is used as a tool by the media and police with their own self-interests in mind.


ps - so how about those tasers eh?  still feel safe from the cops?  the fuck up count is rising