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B.C. is the first province in Canada to pilot an AI tool that analyzes the chemical makeup of seized drugs, maps distribution points, and flags emerging public health concerns in the illicit supply. Abbotsford Police are among 16 law enforcement agencies already using it. Robyn has the details below.
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News & Features
B.C. launches pilot to fight toxic-drug crisis with AI technology
Photo: Province of British Columbia
Police forces and scientists across B.C., including in the Fraser Valley, are taking part in the province’s new pilot project to track and predict changes in the illicit drug market.
Track and Trace, a tool developed by Aidos Innovations, a non-profit science institute, in collaboration with researchers at UBC, uses a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and forensic robotics to help police and health researchers understand the complex drug supply.
Lab robotics are able to analyze the chemical makeup of substances seized by police and the information is then uploaded to a secure database where AI technology tracks any shifts in these chemicals.
It can map out distribution points in the illicit market and will flag any emerging public-health concerns, allowing for better oversight of shifting trends in the street supply.
Nina Krieger, B.C.’s public safety minister says keeping up with the toxic-drug crisis has become increasingly difficult, as the “illicit drug supply is changing faster than our warning systems.”
Need to Know
🔥 A 49-year-old man has been charged with manslaughter after a 47-year-old was killed in a fire at the Peardonville homeless encampment in Abbotsford on April 24. Investigators believe the killing was targeted. [CTV News]
🏒 The City of Chilliwack will take over management of the Chilliwack Coliseum on May 1, ending a 23-year public-private partnership with the Chiefs Development Group. [City of Chilliwack]
💰 Langley Township's $602-million debt load — the second highest in BC and the highest per capita among major BC cities — is sparking debate between Mayor Eric Woodward, who says borrowing funds needed infrastructure, and critics who worry about future tax increases. [CBC News]
🚇 Construction crews have completed 25 per cent of the 16-kilometre elevated guideway for the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension, with the full guideway on track for completion in July 2027 and the line expected to open before the end of 2029. [Daily Hive]
🔫 Abbotsford police arrested a 42-year-old man after tracking a stolen SUV to a Langley property, where officers found a loaded handgun under the driver's seat. A second man with an outstanding robbery warrant was also arrested at the scene. [Fraser Valley Today]
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🗓 Things to do
Seek & Sketch at The Reach: Every Tuesday evening at The Reach Gallery Museum, visitors of all skill levels can sketch original artwork in the gallery from 5–8 PM. Materials provided, admission by donation.
Dean Michael Smith at Sidekick Brewing: Award-winning multi-instrumentalist Dean Michael Smith plays a free show at Sidekick Brewing on April 30 as part of the Sidestage Live Music Series.
Morgan Davis at Bozzini's: East Coast blues legend Morgan Davis brings nearly 60 years of blues experience to Bozzini's on April 30. Tickets are $29.50.
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