‘Freedom Convoys’ policing bill: $385,947

The so-called Freedom Convoys that descended on the B.C. legislature over more than three months this year will cost taxpayers nearly $400,000 in overtime policing costs.

The processions of hornhonking, flag-waving vehicles and protesters demanding the end to pandemic mask mandates and other restrictions resulted in $385,947.25 in overtime costs over nine weeks between January and April, according to figures released by the Victoria Police Department on Friday.

VicPD said as the protests occurred at the B.C. legislature, overtime costs are being covered by the province. Regular duty time, including response by on-duty patrol and traffic officers, are not recovered and will come from the department’s budget.

Officers from the Greater Victoria Public Safety Unit, as well as VicPD officers and specialized civilian staff, responded to protests in James Bay over a nearly three-month period.

“Despite declared intentions to occupy the area by members of some protest groups, and significant tensions between protest and counter-protest groups and impacts on nearby businesses and members of the community, there have been no injuries, no significant property damage and no occupation has occurred,” VicPD said in a statement.

More than 50 tickets were issued under the Motor Vehicle Act, as well as four City of Victoria “honking” bylaw citations, and three arrests were made, police said. “Our continued thanks to James Bay area residents who have borne the brunt of the disruptions, including significant traffic disruptions and the unlawful use of vehicle horns, including modified air, ship and train horns mounted to vehicles,” Chief Del Manak said.

“Officers continue to respond to dangerous or unlawful acts during protests with de-escalation and enforcement.”