B.C.’s Small Businesses Staying Silent on Crime: Survey Unveils Alarming Trends

Published 5:35 am Saturday, January 24, 2026

Overview of the Survey Findings

A recent survey conducted by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) reveals concerning insights regarding the state of crime and public safety experienced by small businesses in British Columbia. Over half of the respondents indicated that crime has escalated in their communities, leading many to adopt a troubling silence when it comes to reporting incidents. This silence stems from a growing belief that the justice system is unlikely to take meaningful action.

Government Cooperation Under Scrutiny

The CFIB survey, which was carried out in the fall of 2025, paints a grim picture of public safety initiatives. Approximately 80% of business owners expressed dissatisfaction with the collaboration among governmental bodies, stating that these entities are failing to effectively address safety concerns. This widespread sentiment could indicate a lack of trust in the mechanisms supposed to protect communities and businesses alike.

The Silence Among Victims

From the survey responses, it appears that a culture of silence is evolving among victims of crime. Many business owners report hesitance in contacting the police due to anticipated long wait times and inadequate follow-up. Ryan Mitton, the CFIB’s director of legislative affairs for B.C., emphasized this issue in a statement released on January 20. He remarked, “When businesses tell us they no longer call the police or file reports, that’s a serious warning sign.” This growing disillusionment could further exacerbate the challenges faced by small businesses.

Real-Life Examples of Rising Crime

These troubling findings echo the experience of several businesses facing criminal activities firsthand. For instance, the Trail Times has encountered a string of incidents marked by vandalism and attempted break-ins over the past few years. These issues included arson in a newspaper box, a fire at the back door, and several attempts to break in. Although nothing was stolen, these experiences forced the Times to take protective measures, such as reinforcing their door and removing the newspaper box. Notably, none of these incidents were reported to the police, as staff opted to manage the aftermath independently.

Growing Concerns Over Community Safety

The CFIB survey highlights a significant trend: 85% of respondents feel that the taxes they contribute do not yield improvements in community safety. Alarmingly, 60% of business owners expressed concerns regarding their own safety, as well as that of their employees and customers. Dissatisfaction with police response times and services has become increasingly common, with fewer than 40% of respondents stating that they routinely file police reports after experiencing crime or safety issues. This points to an urgent need for improvements in police accountability and community trust.

Impact on Daily Business Operations

For many small businesses, especially those in vibrant downtown areas and commercial corridors, crime and public disorder have regrettably become an everyday reality. Reports of theft, vandalism, and the need for enhanced security are now part of the routine for many owners. The CFIB indicates that harassment and intimidation of employees during work hours or after closing also remain pressing issues that need immediate attention.

Need for Systemic Change

Mitton noted that businesses are refraining from reporting crimes due to loss of faith in the provincial justice system. While there are early indications of progress from initiatives like the Community Safety Enhancement Program, the urgent need for systemic change is clear. “B.C. businesses still need their governments to enforce the law, enhance service levels, and offer financial assistance for security upgrades or vandalism repairs,” he added, highlighting the gaps that still need to be addressed for a safer business environment.

How AI legalese decoder Can Help

In this climate of uncertainty and rising crime, AI legalese decoder can serve as a valuable resource for small business owners. By simplifying complex legal jargon and making documents more accessible, the AI tool can guide business owners through their options when reporting crimes or interacting with law enforcement. This tool can help demystify the reporting process, provide clarity on rights, and empower owners to take appropriate actions without feeling overwhelmed by bureaucratic legal terminology. By facilitating better understanding and communication, AI legalese decoder can play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the ongoing challenges related to crime and public safety.

Survey Methodology

The CFIB survey was based on responses from 332 members collected between October 9 and October 24, 2025. These findings contribute to a growing understanding of the pressing issues small businesses face and underscore the urgent need for effective policy changes to address safety and community concerns.