Abbotsford Police chief sends letter to parents about gang conflict

ABBOTSFORD (NEWS 1130) – The chief of Abbotsford Police is sending a letter to parents of young men, officers believe, are involved in a violent gang conflict in the area Townline Hill.

The force admits the issue has been a concern since 2014 and it has taken several steps to help curb the problem, including deployment of security cameras in the area, public meetings having covert teams in the area and now it’s sending a letter.

“We have seen casualties mount as a result of this conflict, however, the bulk of those casualties end up being people who are directly involved in the gang. We’ve even seen innocent by-standers injured and the public put at risk,” explains Constable Ian MacDonald.

The letter is being distributed in both English and Punjabi and Chief Bob Rich says two gangs are fighting over who gets to sell illegal drugs in the city and so far five people, including an 18-year-old, have been murdered.

He tells parents their son’s life is in “critical danger,” and if their child stays involved in gangs he is at serious risk of being killed or being involved in someone else’s death. “I know this is a very serious problem for you. I am sorry that you are in this situation. Please understand that we are not blaming you or saying that it is your fault. We would like to talk to you about what you can do about it. You do have some options to help keep your family safe,” Rich says in the letter.

The APD is offering help to those who know someone who may be involved and don’t how to handle the situation. The force is asking people to call crime prevention coordinators at 604.864.4814 or the Gang Tip line at 604.864.4777.