Halifax Property Vacated Under Safer Communities Act
A Halifax neighbourhood is safer today, June 25, after actions by the province under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act.
On Friday, June 15, the Department of Justice notified two tenants of an apartment unit on Clifton Street that they had seven days to leave the building or the department would go to court to force them out.
The apartment unit was the scene of a gun-related homicide in May 2012. Before the homicide, police responded to incidents in the building numerous times.
The department of Justice worked closely with Halifax Regional Police and the apartment building's owner to carry out a voluntary notice to vacate.
On Friday, June 22, the tenants left. Over the weekend, the remaining tenants vacated at the request of the building owner. The nine-unit apartment building will remain vacant while the owner completes renovations.
"Nova Scotians have a right to feel safe and secure in their communities," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "Everyone has a role to play in stopping violence and this is an excellent example of what can happen when a community becomes involved in a solution."
The Department of Justice encourages people to report a problem property by calling, toll free, 1-877-357-2337.
There have been more than 800 complaints since the Safer Communities and Neighbourhood Act began in 2007. There have been nine formal evictions using community safety orders and 124 voluntary notices to vacate.
"We've responded to this particular building many times for drug and weapons offences, among others. This criminal activity has significantly impacted residents and businesses in the area," says Chief Frank Beazley of Halifax Regional Police. "Our partnership with the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods team has led to a voluntary notice to vacate. This, coupled with the announcement today of charges related to the homicide that took place at this address on May 25, will undoubtedly help to enhance community safety in the area."
The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods team improves community safety by targeting and, if necessary, shutting down residential and commercial buildings and land that are regularly used for illegal activities. The activities include bootlegging, drugs, prostitution and illegal gaming.
More information on the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/just .