Squamish RCMP warns against vigilantism, confirms no public threat

Squamish RCMP says it’s aware of public safety concerns in the community after alleged stalking incidents, but is warning the public not to take the law into their own hands.

In a press release, Squamish RCMP said police share concerns about safety. The press release comes after a local woman alleged that she was being stalked and police were not helping. Her post led to more women sharing their experiences, with some alleging a human-trafficking gang was operating in Squamish.

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Police have made it clear that there is no threat to public safety.

“Our officers have thoroughly assessed the situation and determined that there is no immediate danger to residents,” said Sgt. Gareth Bradley. “We thank residents for their dedication to making Squamish a safe and welcoming place for all. As a law enforcement agency, the Sea to Sky RCMP – Squamish is committed to addressing criminal activities and maintaining a safe environment through professional investigations and responsive action. We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity or concerns directly to us by calling the detachment at 604-892-6100 or dialing 911 in emergencies.”

“Our team of dedicated officers work around the clock to respond to calls, investigate incidents, and prevent crime whenever possible,” Bradley added. “While some of our work may not be immediately visible, we are continuously active in our efforts to protect the community. This includes patrolling neighbourhoods, following up on investigations, working with community partners, and addressing emerging issues. Some investigations require time and discretion to gather evidence effectively. We appreciate the public’s patience as we follow due process.”

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Bradley said public involvement and vigilance play an important role in the community, but residents are reminded to avoid taking matters into their own hands.

“Engaging in acts of vigilantism places individuals at personal risk and has targeted innocent people in this community,” he said. “Vigilantism may also inadvertently interfere with ongoing investigations, jeopardizing the safety of others and potentially compromising the legal process. Public safety is best upheld when citizens and law enforcement work together in trust and collaboration.”

“We ask that residents continue to be our eyes and ears on the ground, reporting any suspicious activity directly to us rather than through social media or other informal channels. We understand that safety concerns can lead to frustration, but it is important to allow law enforcement to manage public safety in a lawful way. Working together, we can address community concerns and keep Squamish safe for everyone.”