CKPG

By Dione Wearmouth

Restorative Justice

Restorative justice program gives unique healing opportunity to those impacted by crime

Nov 17, 2021 | 2:35 PM

PRINCE GEORGE- The RCMP and the Prince George Urban Aborginal Society is reigniting their Restorative Justice Programs, which provide victims and offenders the chance to heal outside of the court system.

Restorative Justice allows perpetrators and victims to meet in a “community justice forum” and discuss the crime from all perspectives of those involved. Both the victim and the perpetrator have the chance to apologize, forgive and ideally, begin to heal from the impacts of the crime. The victim can also make suggestions for what community service route would best suit the situation.

This program has been used in many instances ranging from sexual assault cases to petty theft. Restorative justice can be utilized at many different stages of the justice system, however, it is most commonly used with non-violent first time offenders, according to PG RCMP Corporal Jennifer Cooper.

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“A lot of times people don’t realize the full extent of their actions, so it gives them an opportunity to really see the effects of the harm that they did,” she said.

Linda Parker, PG RCMP Community Policing and Restorative Justice Coordinator says many people might see this program as a way to give criminals a slap on their wrist for their crimes. However, she says this program helps people become better members of the community, and can help them stop and re-evaluate the path that they’re on.

“It’s not a slap, it’s an opportunity. The individual that has caused harm really needs to reflect on their behaviour and needs to physically face the person they’ve harmed. And it’s not easy to admit that you’re wrong, that you’ve made a mistake and to offer something to give back to that person and community to make up for the harm that has been done.”

The Prince George Urban Aboriginal Society has been running it’s restorative justice program for 20 years, while the RCMP have been using it since 2016. A video detailing the Restorative Justice program can be seen here.

Volunteers are needed for both the RCMP and the Prince George Urban Aboriginal Society. To apply, contact the RCMP or the PGUAS office.