The Government of Yukon is providing $442,000 per year for the next three years to the RCMP “M” Division for the creation of a Historical Case Unit. This funding will expand the RCMP’s capacity to investigate unsolved homicides and missing person investigations.
The resources will support three additional full-time RCMP officers who will investigate historic homicides and missing persons cases, and be available to support the Major Crimes Unit if needed when suspicious deaths occur.
The unit’s mandate will also include investigative activities related to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and liaising with victims’ families, Yukon First Nations, community groups and other partners.
The need for a dedicated Historical Case Unit was identified as a result of the unprecedented number of homicides that have recently occurred in the territory that require continued work to be solved.
The unusually high number of recent homicides in Yukon is a great concern to everyone in our territory. We want those responsible to be held accountable and for families who have lost their loved ones to be supported in their efforts to find answers and seek justice. These additional resources will help the RCMP to conduct these investigations more effectively and efficiently.
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee
Losing a loved one can have a profound and lasting impact on families, friends and communities – especially when a complex and lengthy investigation follows. The support provided by the Government of Yukon will allow the RCMP to dedicate a team of investigators to advancing historical cases in the territory. Our goal is to bring these investigations to successful conclusions, and ultimately, to provide answers to the families of the victims.
Commanding Officer Chief Superintendent Scott Sheppard, Yukon RCMP
Since 2000, there have been 35 homicide investigations of which 23 have resulted in criminal charges being laid. There are 12 unsolved homicides which are the subject of ongoing criminal investigations.
The creation of a Historical Case Unit contributes to supporting the priorities the Minister of Justice has identified for the RCMP: enhance prevention, investigation and enforcement activities related to violence against women; proactively respond to emerging public safety issues and trends in criminal activity; contribute to improve the community response to vulnerable population; and foster strong relationships with First Nations, communities and partner agencies.
Funding is provided to the RCMP “M” Division under the 2012–2032 Territorial Police Service Agreement between Canada and Yukon.
Sunny Patch
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca
Megan Foreman
Communications, Justice
867-667-3232
megan.foreman@gov.yk.ca