Assault Incidents on the Rise at Edmonton Shelters, But Numbers Lower Than Expected, Researcher Says

Assault incidents at Edmonton‘s major shelters, Herb Jamieson and Hope Mission, have shown an increase in reported occurrences, but surprising findings suggest the numbers are lower than expected, according to a recent analysis.

The Coalition for Justice and Human Rights obtained documents through a freedom of information request, revealing a total of 550 reported occurrences since 2021 at the shelters, with 443 categorized as assaults.

Professor Damian Collins from the University of Alberta, specializing in housing and homelessness, expressed his surprise at the relatively low assault numbers given the growing shelter population.

The statistics showed that annual assaults at the two shelters reached 103 in 2021, 142 in 2022, and 143 in 2023, with 55 reported so far in 2024.

Of the total 443 assaults, 156 were classified as assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm, indicating an upward trend.

Reports also documented a rise in sudden deaths at the shelters, from 18 in 2021 and 2022 to 44 in 2023, with seven reported in 2024.

Solutions to address the assault incidents at shelters could involve enhancing staff training in de-escalation techniques and tackling overcrowding issues, suggested Collins.

Keith Johnson, from the Edmonton Police Service, emphasized the importance of community safety and deploying resources effectively to prevent altercations within shelter districts.

Alberta Health Services conducted multiple health inspections, noting complaints about cleanliness, outbreaks of diseases like Shigella, and issues of overcrowding at the shelters.

The shelters’ management responded promptly to compliance concerns raised by health inspectors, aiming to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for occupants.

Collins highlighted that overcrowding can contribute to the spread of infections like lice and bedbugs, presenting a challenge for the shelters, especially in colder weather.

In response, Hope Mission stated their commitment to working closely with health inspectors and addressing issues promptly to enhance the quality of care provided in the shelters.