Do overdose prevention sites in Toronto cause more crime?

No, a new study found no association between overdose prevention sites and overall increases in crime rates in Toronto neighborhoods.

What did the JAMA study find about supervised consumption sites in Toronto?

The JAMA study found that supervised consumption sites in Toronto had neutral to positive impacts on crime rates, with decreases in most crime categories over time.

Are break-ins a problem near Toronto's supervised drug sites?

The study noted a temporary increase in break-ins right after sites opened, but these rates declined over time.

Home / Crime and Justice / Study: Overdose Sites Don't Increase Neighborhood Crime

Study: Overdose Sites Don't Increase Neighborhood Crime

8 Jan

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Summary

Supervised drug consumption sites show no overall crime increase in Toronto.
Break-ins saw a minor rise initially but declined over time.
Poverty, not sites, may be linked to neighborhood issues.

A comprehensive study examining the impact of overdose prevention sites (OPS) and supervised consumption sites (SCS) in Toronto has found no association with overall increases in neighborhood crime rates. Researchers from McGill University investigated community concerns and discovered that these sites had neutral to positive effects, with a decline in most crime categories over time.

The study, published in JAMA, analyzed crime data within a 400-meter radius of nine OPS and SCS locations between January 1, 2014, and June 30, 2024. While a temporary increase in break-and-enters was noted shortly after sites opened, this trend reversed, with rates declining month over month. Other crime types, including assaults, robberies, and various thefts, also showed decreases over time near these facilities.

Experts emphasize that while community concerns are valid, the data suggests a need for greater awareness of overdose prevention's impact. Some also posit that factors like the high cost of living and limited housing access in affected neighborhoods may be more strongly correlated with issues like break-and-enters than the presence of supervised consumption sites. This research aims to inform ongoing discussions about the integration and continued operation of these vital health services.