From the CPS FB page:
Gun Violence in Calgary
Due to the recent series of violent shootings, stabbings and homicides, we wanted to reach out to Calgarians to discuss the current situation, the steps being taken to address these problems, and how you can assist.
Our Specialized Offender Unit, with Service-wide support, is currently investigating approximately 40 people believed to be involved in at least 55 shootings dating back to 2012, a number of unsolved homicides over the last five years, and at least 17 reported violent home invasions within the last year. Over 20 people within this group have been charged with more than 100 drug and breach of conditions related offences since September 2016.
Despite significant efforts and resources being dedicated to this issue, police have seen a recent increase in their violent behaviour.
“These are predominantly young men who have zero regard for the safety of others, but even more alarming, have zero regard for their own lives. This makes them extremely dangerous, violent and unpredictable. The risk these individuals pose to bystanders and innocent members of our community is deeply concerning,” says Staff Sgt. Rob Davidson. “Retaliatory violence is entirely impulsive with this group because of their non-traditional structure.”
The violence is typically targeted to individuals within the group as allegiances fluctuate amongst the members. Investigators characterize the group as very disorganized, fluid and lacking the hierarchy and structure of traditional gangs. They do not self-identify under a specific name, or names. Their range of violence includes shootings, kidnappings, assaults, extortions and home invasions.
Traditional gang and gun violence in Calgary can be tied to specific groups who target clearly defined oppositional groups aiming to control the drug trade or criminal activity in Calgary. Investigators believe the recent violence is motivated by perceived personal slights within the group and the desire to live a criminal lifestyle, although drug involvement remains a common factor.
We have a robust coordinated strategy in place to address this ongoing violence. This strategy involves intelligence, suppression and investigative efforts from more than 15 specialty areas across the Service, along with dedicated analytical support. In addition, frontline patrol officers remain steadfast in their critical incident response to these ongoing incidents.
“We know people might be scared, but there are ways to provide information anonymously. As Calgarians we need to come together to send a clear message that this kind of activity is not tolerated in our city,” says Staff Sgt. Davidson.
Violent incidents and the individuals responsible for the incidents are a priority focus for the Calgary Police Service. We are dedicated to working collaboratively within our agency, with our external partners in law enforcement and with Calgarians to find lasting solutions.
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