Downtown Vancouver storefronts struggle with repeated vandalisms
Posted December 19, 2021 9:27 am.
Last Updated December 19, 2021 9:28 am.
A number of storefront windows in the Vancouver downtown core including Holt Renfrew, Nordstrom, and The Bay have been smashed this month.
According to Vancouver Police, reports of the smashings span from Dec. 10 to Dec. 16., although there is no video surveillance.
Many Vancouverites have taken to Twitter to voice their concerns over the increase in vandalism.
So in one 60-minute walk last night, I noticed that all three major department stores had been hit (The Bay, Holt Renfrew, and Nordstrom) plus a Dior location. We’re like San Francisco now. @CityNewsVAN @jarmstrongbc @PeterMeiszner pic.twitter.com/qLwuDqRTx5
— Eddy Elmer (@Eddy_Elmer) December 17, 2021
There are no reported suspects in the latest string of window smashing, however, police say in response to safety concerns, they have deployed more officers throughout downtown Vancouver.
“Though we still have work to do, those efforts are showing results … That doesn’t minimize the frustration the owners of these three businesses are enduing with such a petty crime that results in a large repair bill,” says Const. Tania Visintin.
In November, police arrested a man accused of smashing multiple windows in the West End, resulting in thousands of dollars in property damage.
In September, police increased the number of officers in the downtown area because of, “community concerns about rising crime and public safety.”
“Though we still have work to do, those efforts are showing results,” police added in an email statement to CityNews.
