RCMP have issued a warning to the public of a prolific offender released back on the streets.
According to the Kelowna RCMP, Justin Wayne Collins, 45, was arrested on Sunday for assault, mischief, mail theft, and violating a probation order. After a court appearance, he was released with further restritions.
Online records show Judge Andrew Tam of the B.C. Provincial Court released him. Judge Tam seems to believe that Collins’ release can be mitigated by conditions, but the Kelowna RCMP is now openly objecting.
Collins has no a fixed address and is ineligible for supportive housing, according to a news release issued by the Kelowna RCMP on Tuesday. Although he is connected to community health resources, he does not regularly use them and “is presenting no signs of becoming healthier in society.”
Collins has more than 421 police files and 64 charges against him since 2016, according to Kelowna RCMP statistics. Charges include violent assaults, indecent acts, mischief, and theft.
“The Kelowna RCMP continue to make arrests and bring Justin Collins to court, however without adequate consequences or compulsory pathways to mental health and substance use programs, our public is at risk. Justin Collins is a repeat offender who has no regard for the safety and well being of others,” said Triance.
In the aftermath of a StatsCanada report that showed the Central Okanagan to have the highest crime rate in the nation among medium and large cities, Kelowna RCMP commander Supt. Kara Triance has lately repeated her criticisms of the “catch and release” judicial system.
Last week, the likely next premier of British Columbia and candidate for the BC NDP leadership stated the province should implement mandatory or involuntary mental health and addictions care.
