B.C. police complaints up, but serious harm investigations fall by about half

The Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner in British Columbia reported a total of 1,524 files opened in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, marking a five percent increase from the previous year. This uptick underscores a rising demand for police complaint oversight, despite a notable decrease in serious harm investigations, which fell to 13—less than half the average of the last four years. The commissioner issued six recommendations to the Vancouver Police Board, including a directive concerning officers wearing unauthorized political patches. In response, the Vancouver Police Department has taken proactive measures, including training and policy reminders about uniform regulations. Additionally, the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner is building a program for systemic investigations, an initiative made possible by the expansion of its mandate under the Police Act last year.

This trend of increasing complaints may indicate a heightened public awareness and demand for accountability in policing. The findings could prompt further discussions on police oversight and community relations. Local authorities are expected to continue addressing these issues to enhance trust within the community.