By Dave Branco

CrossRoads Arson Reaction

Crossroads Brewing fire sparks debate over justice policies

Sep 9, 2025 | 3:29 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – The recent fire at Crossroads Brewing highlights the consequences of the NDP’s catch-and-release justice system, according to the BC Conservative Party. They argue that this incident serves as a tragic example of how repeat offenders can wreak havoc on communities, small businesses, and local economies.

A temporary construction fence now surrounds the charred remains of the Crossroads brewery and distillery restaurant. On Monday afternoon, Prince George RCMP arrested 57-year-old Richard Titchener for arson, keeping fire crews busy battling the flames throughout most of the day. Prince George-Valemount MLA Rosalyn Bird emphasized that this situation highlights the consequences of the NDP’s approach to criminal justice.

“ This gentleman should be in jail. There’s no question about it. He has 20 convictions dating back to 2009. Sexual assault, assault, uttering threats, you know, mischief to property, breach of probation orders.

Rosalyn Bird

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Bird believes that more needs to be done to support the rehabilitation of prolific offenders while they are in jail. Despite the devastating impact on the downtown area and growing demands for justice, Mayor Simon Yu remains steadfast in his commitment to revitalizing the downtown.

“I’m talking to the owner of the Ramada right now. I want to make sure that his plan to invest in this area right across from the street will continue.”

Mayor Simon Yu

City of Prince George

The issues of public safety and the criminal justice system are set to be discussed when municipal leaders gather in Victoria later this month.

Here is a response CKPG News received from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Statement from Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

“This is a very frightening situation for people in Prince George. I’m glad to see that this individual was swiftly apprehended by police and is facing new charges in connection to the fire last Friday.

“The Prince George REVOII Hub is monitoring 40 prioritized individuals, and the Prince George RCMP has received over $880,000 in funding from the Special Investigation and Targeted Enforcement Program (SITE) for six proactive enforcement operations targeting repeat violent offending. The Province has also stood up a Situation Table in Prince George to help families and individuals in crisis find the supports they need.

“These are very challenging issues that are being faced by downtowns across North America. We’re committed to tackling these issues head-on and addressing the root causes of crime to ensure the safety and strength of our communities.

“We know there are many challenges. Our government is confronting them head-on by being firm on crime and equally firm on tackling the social issues that fuel it. We are continuing to take action to strengthen enforcement, press the federal government for bail reform, and enhance reintegration and intervention services for offenders.”

Background:

Some examples of where the ReVOII program has made a difference for specific people:

• A man in Prince George found himself in a cycle of being released and then back in custody. When he was in custody, he would receive the proper medication needed to treat his mental health issues. But upon release, he couldn’t go to the local pharmacy because of a previous arrest, so when he would try to get his medication he would be re-arrested. Through the ReVOII program he now has the help he needs to stay on medication and live a healthier life.
• In Surrey, one person used to generate over 100 calls a month to the police. Through the ReVOII program, he now has access to a support person who is helping him keep his life on the right track. In four months after being in the program he generated 0 calls to the police.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ