Teen gun issues grow

Regina struggles with problem of increased firearms offences

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and the issue surrounding an increased number of teens in possession of guns in Regina will not likely be solved in 24 hours, either.

A string of incidents involving teens and firearms has left community members pondering prevention and solution strategies.

In June, four boys — ages 13 to 15 — were charged with a total of 58 firearms offences following two episodes where two people were shot and wounded, four incidents where windows were shot out and five incidents involving pellet guns and CO2 pistols being fired.

On Thursday, a 14-year-old boy and a 12-year-old boy were apprehended after a 12-year-old boy was shot and ended up in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“This isn’t a quick fix,” said Michael Parker, executive director at North Central Community Association (NCCA).

When asked about the root of the gun problem, Parker described it as “systemic.” Socio-economic status, residential schools and poverty are just a few of the factors he said tie into increased gun activity.

Parker said it’s “obviously devastating” to hear about any preteen or young teen with a gun. “I don’t even know where to get a gun myself.”

Elizabeth Popowich, spokeswoman for the Regina Police Service, said in an email there is no specific person or place from which youths could be acquiring the weapons.

“What we do sometimes see and hear is emulation of a ‘gang’ lifestyle. That’s glamorized through music, movies and media. So, the acquisition of a firearm may have more to do with imitation than have an actual connection to gang or organized crime,” said Popowich.

RPS statistics indicate in May and June there were 97 total firearms taken off the street this year, and 34 last year — showing gun seizures have tripled.

“This isn’t limited to being an issue in North Central,” said Parker, as a reminder that this could happen anywhere in the city or country.

According to Statistics Canada, 18.7 per cent of boys — ages 14 to 17 — in Montreal, and 15.1 per cent in Toronto have brought a gun to school.

“People need to be reminded that there is hope,” he said.

NCCA offers many recreational programs, including Family Rec Night. Although only about 15 people showed up this week, Parker said “it still made an impact, even if it was a small impact.”

Popowich said “the solutions are the same as they are for adults in possession of firearms.”

“We rely on citizen observations and a willingness to call us if they see someone with a firearm. We do prompt, thorough, diligent investigations.

The acquisition of a firearm may have more to do with imitation than ... an actual connection to gang or organized crime.