Pandora's Box - Cst. Mark Jenkins

True Blue Podcast

VCPU Director Tom Stamatakis hosts this episode with repeat guest Cst. Mark Jenkins who serves as a "Community Resource Officer" in downtown Victoria. Mark's perspective comes from his expansive frontline experience and excellent insight into the issues the public sees and hears about.
The host, Tom Stamatakis also relates his experiences after working an overtime shift in the Pandora Avenue area and how much worse things have become since he last worked on the road. Tom and Mark go into depth about Mark's recent trip to New York City which hosted a "homeless study" for police and other service providers working with homeless populations. Much of the conversation focuses on what Victoria is doing wrong and may be shocking for people to hear.
Question - “Mark what are the biggest issues we face on the streets of Victoria?” Answer: “Drugs, Drugs, Drugs!”
Reportedly it takes 6-9 months to get into a drug treatment bed in the Victoria area. The routine includes putting addicts asking for help back into the "wet shelter" community where drugs are widespread. New York City has a much different perspective on how to manage these issues and Mark shares some of his thoughts.
What is the overall impact on the community of the large homeless encampments becoming entrenched in our parks? Mark shares a couple of stories that should enlighten the listener.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

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