Crime rates fell near Toronto supervised consumption sites, study finds

A McGill University study reporting data from 2014–2024 found that crime reports within 400 metres of nine overdose prevention and supervised consumption sites in Toronto stayed the same or declined; break-and-enters rose briefly after openings but then fell over time.

Researchers at McGill University looked at crime reports near supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites in Toronto after hearing community concerns that openings were linked to higher crime. The analysis covered nine sites and used Toronto police data from Jan. 1, 2014 to June 30, 2024, measuring incidents within a 400-metre radius. The study was published in JAMA and aimed to compare trends from before and after site openings. Authors reported mostly neutral to positive changes in crime rates over time. Key findings: - Overall crime reports near the nine sites remained the same or declined over the study period. - Reports of assaults, robberies, thefts over $5,000, bicycle thefts and thefts from motor vehicles decreased near sites. - Break-and-enters increased in some areas immediately after sites opened but declined month to month thereafter. - The analysis covered a 400-metre radius around each site and spanned 2014–2024, ending before many sites were later closed by the province. - Researchers noted limitations, including lack of adequate data on neighbourhood nuisances and an inability to rule out other factors such as changes in policing. Summary: The study found no sustained increase in overall crime near supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites and observed declines in several offence categories; a temporary rise in break-and-enters after openings later decreased. Undetermined at this time.