Based on coverage from StatCan and CTV.
Police-Reported Drug Crime Trends in Canada
After a steady decline over the past decade, police-reported drug crime in Canada saw a surprising uptick in 2024. According to Statistics Canada, the rate of drug crime increased by 13% from 2023 to 2024, reaching 128 incidents per 100,000 people. While this marks a reversal of the long-term trend, the rate is still significantly lower than the historic peak of 330 incidents per 100,000 people recorded in 2011. The legalization of non-medical cannabis in 2018 has played a significant role in the overall decline, but recent increases in offences involving cannabis, cocaine, and non-heroin opioids have contributed to the latest rise.
Cannabis Legalization and Its Impact
The legalization of cannabis has dramatically shifted the landscape of drug-related crime in Canada. In 2014, cannabis offences accounted for 66% of all drug crimes. Fast forward to 2024, and that figure has plummeted to 17%. This decline is largely due to the legalization of non-medical cannabis, which has reduced possession offences significantly. However, the recent increase in drug crime is partly due to a rise in cannabis-related trafficking and import/export offences, which saw a notable increase of 53% from 2023 to 2024.
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Regional Variations and Cocaine's Prevalence
The increase in drug crime is not uniform across Canada. The Northwest Territories reported the highest rate of drug crime in 2024, with 2,591 incidents per 100,000 people, far outpacing other regions like Yukon and British Columbia. Vancouver, in particular, experienced a 35% increase in drug crime, the highest among major Canadian cities. Cocaine offences have become the most prevalent, making up 27% of all drug crimes in 2024. This rise in cocaine-related offences, alongside increases in non-heroin opioid possession, highlights shifting patterns in drug use and enforcement.
Changing Nature of Drug Offences
The nature of drug offences has evolved over the past decade. In 2014, possession offences made up 75% of all drug crimes, but by 2024, this had dropped to 42%. This shift reflects broader changes in police practices and legislative guidelines, such as the Public Prosecution Service of Canada's focus on serious drug offences. While possession offences have decreased, trafficking and import/export offences have become more common, indicating a shift in the types of drug-related activities being targeted by law enforcement.
Overall, while the recent increase in drug crime may seem concerning, it's important to view it within the context of a broader, long-term decline. Changes in legislation, enforcement practices, and societal attitudes towards drugs continue to shape the landscape of drug crime in Canada. As these factors evolve, so too will the patterns of drug-related offences across the country.
Related: Alberta Sheriffs Close Calgary Drug House After 45 Police Visits in Two Years
