Project Agent
Purpose
The Abbotsford Police Department began the Project Agent program in 2020 in response to the increasing number of calls for service from commercial businesses regarding trespassers affecting the safe and lawful use of their properties. The Project Agent agreement gives police the authority to enter onto private commercial properties and deal with trespassers without the need to first contact the owners.
As a first step, police educate trespassers about the BC Trespass Act. If the trespassers are persons in need, officers will attempt to connect them with community resources including shelter or supportive housing options and other outreach services.
If trespassers fail to comply with the lawful request of police to vacate the property, officers may be required to take enforcement actions.
Program Application Process
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Complete the online inquiry form on this page for intake and suitability assessment by the Crime Prevention section. You may be contacted with some follow-up questions.
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After confirmation of your enrollment in the Project Agent program, you will be provided signage and guidance as to where to mount it on your building to ensure maximum visibility. The signage must be displayed as part of the contract.
- Once the business is an active member of Project Agent, if police witness trespassing incidents on your property, they will have the authority to assess the situation and take any necessary action. This would include providing education about the BC Trespass Act, offering outreach to individuals in need and, if necessary, taking any required enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I sign up?
The program gives officers the ability to enforce contraventions under the BC Trespass Act while acting as an agent of the commercial business owner (no residential properties), without requiring the owner to be present.
Is there a cost for this program?
There is no cost to participate in the program. The signage provided is the property of the Abbotsford Police Department and is returned to the Abbotsford Police Department at the end of the contract (e.g., the business is closed or sold to a new owner). The program is not transferable between owners or locations.
How long is the contract for?
The contract is open-ended. It can be ended at any time by either the property owner (or their agent) or the Abbotsford Police Department. The Abbotsford Police Department conducts annual audits of the program to confirm your contact information and to determine if continuing participation in Project Agent is necessary for your business.
Once registered, does it mean the police will require access to the property if the property owner is not there?
For the most part, no. Project Agent covers the exterior area of your property. Most issues will be dealt with on the exterior of your property (entranceways, alcoves, driveways, open parking lots, etc.). If the trespasser has entered into a fenced compound or into a building, police may require access to further investigate and consider possible Criminal Code offences that may be occurring (i.e., Break and Enter).
What do I do if I’m a Project Agent partner and something is happening inside my store?
If an incident is happening inside your business during operating hours, please call police via the normal channels (either 9-1-1 or the non-emergency line at 604-859-5225).
Is Project Agent a 24/7 program?
Yes. However, it is intended to primarily be an “after-hours” program (business closing to business opening), allowing police to act on your behalf while your business is closed. During normal business hours, businesses would call for service as stated.
Note: Participation in the program does not guarantee regular patrols of the property, as call volumes and available resources may vary. If you see an incident that requires police attendance, please call 9-1-1 in an emergency, 604-859-5225 or report by text 222973 for non-emergencies.
Contact: For any questions please email: [email protected]