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By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Youth Violence

Abbotsford Police launching a summer program to steer youth away from a criminal life

Jul 30, 2025 | 1:47 PM

ABBOTSFORD — Police in Abbotsford have launched a summer program with hopes of curbing a troubling rise in youth violence. It says it has recorded an increase in the number of violent crimes involving youths in 2025. That includes assaults, robberies and even a recent homicide.

The AbbyPD Youth Squad will lead the program, focussing on targeted enforcement, proactive engagement and partnerships in the community.

The strategy will include weekly home visits to high-risk youth, which have already begun. AbbyPD will be working with external agencies, local liquor stores and Lower Mainland police departments to strengthen prevention efforts while improving intelligence sharing.

Enforcement measures will include curfew checks and heightened patrols by both uniformed and plain-clothes officers. Patrols are planned at malls, parks, bus loops and youth centres. Bike patrols are also planned. Officers will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to criminal activity.

The summer program fits well with the AbbyPD’s ongoing PATHWAYS program. That program supports youth and young adults who have been identified as being at-risk of gang involvement or criminal activity. PATHWAYS attempts to divert at-risk individuals from a criminal lifestyle. More information on the program is available on the AbbyPD website.

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