Crown Counsel Union Challenges Staff Shortages in Okanagan and Kootenay: Major Grievance Filed

The BC Crown Counsel Association is raising concerns about a shortage of prosecutors in the Okanagan and Kootenay regions. They argue that the current number is insufficient to manage cases effectively.

Adam Dalrymple, the association’s president, highlighted that inadequate staffing not only affects the workload of Crown prosecutors but also disrupts the justice system. He emphasized that these regions need 20 additional Crown prosecutors to deal with a rising caseload. This demand represents a 20 to 30 percent increase in staff.

In conversation with Black Press Media, Dalrymple noted that the lack of resources is harming their ability to serve communities. “So much of the system depends on quick decisions and accountability,” he explained. “To improve, we need more hands on deck.”

This isn’t the first time the issue has been brought to light. Last year, Dalrymple urged for a 50 percent increase in Vernon’s Crown prosecutors. The Prosecution Service previously claimed there wasn’t enough evidence to support such a staff increase, but Dalrymple stated that the situation has worsened. In Vernon, there are currently four to five full-time prosecutors, down from six in 2004. Meanwhile, the complexity and volume of cases have risen sharply.

Dalrymple illustrated this complexity with a recent example involving digital evidence, which takes up valuable time for prosecutors. Some cases now include hours of video footage that must be reviewed, which adds to their workload.

The issue is compounded by population growth in the Okanagan. Dalrymple argued that staffing levels haven’t kept pace with this growth, which creates gaps in the legal process. He noted that the priority system being used could mean that serious crimes are being handled over less severe ones, raising public concern.

Local leaders are being called upon for support. Dalrymple hopes that Vernon mayor Victor Cumming and Vernon-Lumby MLA Harwinder Sandhu will advocate for more resources for prosecutors. He mentioned discussions he has had with both figures.

Beyond staffing, Dalrymple stressed the need for technological upgrades. The current electronic management system is sluggish, making it harder for staff to perform their duties efficiently. He pointed out that the loss of skilled paralegals and assistants also plays a critical role in this struggle.

In recent studies, around 60% of prosecutors in various regions echoed concerns about rising workloads and staffing shortages. The need for technological advancements and additional staff is becoming increasingly urgent.

With the pressures mounting on Crown prosecutors, it’s more important than ever to address these issues. The hope is that communities will rally behind the cause to ensure a more robust justice system for all.



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