A radio host in Surrey, who was a victim of extortion, welcomes the initiative to form a community advisory board aimed at combatting the extortion crisis.
During a recent announcement, B.C. Premier David Eby highlighted that the new advisory committee will play a crucial role in addressing extortion threats. The committee aims to establish direct channels of communication between police leadership and individuals who have experienced extortion firsthand.
Jinny Sims, a radio host at Radio Swift 1200 AM in Surrey, found herself at the center of a troubling incident last year when her station was targeted by gunshots. She emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between victims and investigators, a connection she believes law enforcement has previously overlooked.
Sims points out that the experiences of victims often go unrecognized by the police, leading some individuals to feel abandoned by the authorities. She shares accounts from members of the community who have been advised by law enforcement to consider leaving town, hiring private security guards, or installing additional surveillance cameras as safety measures.
Expressing her concerns, Sims questions the efficacy of such suggestions, particularly in situations where unarmed security personnel could be put at risk. She challenges the notion of asking someone to safeguard her property in the face of imminent danger.
Despite the challenges faced by the community, there is a sense of optimism surrounding the formation of the community advisory committee. Sims believes that this initiative could provide a coordinated plan involving various stakeholders, including the city council and the mayor, fostering greater collaboration to address the ongoing crisis.
Surrey Police Service Chief Norm Lipinski echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping effective law enforcement responses. He envisions the advisory committee as a platform to enhance dialogue and cooperation between the community and the police in combating extortion threats.