Newfoundland and Labrador has experienced the largest increase in crime rates

St. John’s, NL (July 24, 2025) – Helen Conway Ottenheimer, PC Shadow Minister for Justice and Public Safety and MHA for Harbour Main, says she is disappointed—but not surprised—by new Statistics Canada data showing Newfoundland and Labrador had the highest increase in crime rates among all provinces and territories last year.

While most provinces saw reductions, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a staggering 5% rise in crime. “This dramatic increase reflects a shocking level of negligence from our provincial government,” said Conway Ottenheimer. “While neighbouring provinces work to improve public safety, we continue to fall behind. What more evidence does this government need? It is clear they are not taking crime seriously.”

According to Statistics Canada, the overall crime rate in the province has surged by 36% from 2014 to 2024. While severe crimes in metro areas fell by 7% last year, Conway Ottenheimer says that does little to counteract the concerning long-term trend. “The last set of stats on intimate partner violence were disturbing. These new numbers only confirm that we are not moving forward; we are regressing,” she added. “That increase should have been a glaring wake-up call.”

MHA Conway Ottenheimer emphasized that the latest data highlights the urgent need for government accountability. The situation demands immediate action and is not a reflection of the work of law enforcement officers, but rather the lack of political leadership and support. “We don’t have enough officers on the ground, which directly impacts police presence and surveillance, two key deterrents to crime,” she said. 

Conway Ottenheimer also stressed the importance of examining a range of interconnected issues, including poverty, homelessness, addiction, trauma, and mental health. “The perception is that much of the crime we are seeing in our province is directly related to the drug crisis and the drug trade. It is essential that we focus on the concentrated and specialized work of police drug units to address this issue effectively.”

Furthermore, Conway Ottenheimer recognizes the importance of strengthened collaborations with community organizations and health services, emphasizing the need for social support systems that encompass mental health and addiction services, as well as crime prevention initiatives. “Trust in this government is fading, and people are feeling vulnerable,” noted Conway Ottenheimer. “The Auditor General's findings raise serious concerns about offenders reoffending while on bail, especially in cases involving intimate partner violence. We need more mobile crisis units, stronger rehabilitative programs, and a real commitment to public safety. A PC government would work to make our communities safer for all of us.”