ANITA HUBERMAN
SURREY – The Surrey Board of Trade joins Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke in urgently calling for a comprehensive review of the laws and protocols concerning the sentencing, release, and monitoring of high-risk sex offenders. This comes after the recent release of Ezaz Razak, identified by the RCMP as posing a serious and imminent risk to vulnerable women and intimate partners. This is the third such release in Surrey in approximately six weeks.
Anita Huberman, President & CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, stated, “It is unacceptable that our community must repeatedly face the potential danger posed by the release of high-risk offenders. The safety and well-being of our residents and businesses are paramount. We cannot allow the current system to continue jeopardizing the security of our community. Immediate action is needed to protect all communities in British Columbia.”
The Surrey Board of Trade highlights the adverse effects on local businesses, including decreased consumer confidence and increased security costs. They call for:
1. Strengthened Sentencing Laws: Re-evaluation of guidelines for dangerous sex offenders.
2. Enhanced Monitoring Systems: More robust supervision, including electronic monitoring.
3. Community Safety Assessments: Thorough risk assessments before release.
4. Transparent Communication: Clear, timely communication about high-risk individuals.
Huberman concluded, “The current situation is untenable. Immediate steps must be taken to restore public confidence and safeguard our neighbourhoods.”
Anita Huberman is the President & CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade
