Duncan Ranks Highest for Severe Crime in B.C. in 2025
Duncan has recorded the highest Crime Severity Index in British Columbia, contrasting with a broader national decline in crime seriousness, according to new Statistics Canada figures.
While most Canadian provinces and major cities experienced lower crime severity, Duncan’s elevated rate contributed to an increase in British Columbia’s overall average. The city’s Crime Severity Index currently stands at 336.
The index considers both the number of police-reported crimes relative to the population and the seriousness of each offence.
Violent Crime Increases by 21 Per Cent
A major factor behind Duncan’s high ranking was a 21 per cent increase in violent crime compared with 2024.
Local residents said the situation has become increasingly noticeable. Duncan resident Jim Dargatz described crime as a serious issue and expressed concern for local shop owners who are struggling with its impact.
Another resident, Nick Proctor, said he noticed a major change in the community after returning to Duncan, particularly regarding homelessness.
Duncan/North Cowichan RCMP were unavailable for comment, while Duncan’s mayor did not respond to a request from CHEK News.
Crime Severity Declines Across Canada
Duncan stands out from the national trend. Canada’s overall Crime Severity Index fell to 75 last year, representing a five per cent decline from the previous year and the second consecutive annual decrease.
Statistics Canada linked the national improvement to fewer break-and-enters, homicides, vehicle thefts and extortion cases. However, shoplifting and fraud continued to rise, offsetting some of the progress.
Each offence included in the Crime Severity Index is assigned a weight based on its seriousness. These weights are calculated using standardized court sentencing information collected over the previous five years.
Crime Rates Vary Across British Columbia
British Columbia also experienced an overall decline in crime relative to population and offence severity. Major urban centres reported fewer homicides and firearm-related crimes.
However, crime levels continue to differ significantly between communities.
Vancouver Island includes some of British Columbia’s safest municipalities, including:
- Oak Bay, with a Crime Severity Index of 26
- Metchosin, with an index of 35
- Saanich, with an index of 40
At the same time, three Vancouver Island communities ranked among the province’s 15 highest for crime severity:
- Duncan: 336
- Port Hardy: 219
- Port Alberni: 206
Port Alberni and Campbell River Report Major Changes
Port Alberni experienced a 40 per cent increase in violent crime, making it another community with a notable rise in serious offences.
Campbell River recorded a Crime Severity Index of 150. Its overall crime rate declined by 15 per cent compared with 2024, largely because of a significant reduction in non-violent offences.
Although crime severity declined nationally and across much of British Columbia, Duncan moved in the opposite direction. Its Crime Severity Index of 336, combined with a 21 per cent rise in violent crime, highlights the major differences in public safety conditions between communities.
