A burned down housing unit is seen in Standoff, Alberta on April 20, 2023. (Photo: Blaire Russell)

By Christian Oldale

Blood Tribe reports multiple cases of vandalism

Apr 21, 2023 | 10:45 AM

STANDOFF, AB – The Blood Tribe is reporting multiple cases of vandalism at vacant buildings.

According to a social media statement from Blood Tribe Communications, incidents include entryways and windows being broken, extensive structural damage, and in some cases, house fires.

Blood Tribe Housing Project Manager, Bernis Wells, said that Housing Relations Officers are dealing with complaints of drug activity and disputes with the renters and homeowners.

Wells said, “Funding is the hardest part. Keeping up with the demand for housing [on the reserve], we have no choice but to repair the damage.”

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Wells stated that there are currently 20 boarded up units in the Standoff townsite. According to Wells, three of those units have burned down, and there are seven units that need to be demolished due to extensive damage. He estimated the cost to repair damaged homes for new families can range from $30,000 up to $100,000 or more.

The Blood Tribe Housing Department has taken measures to increase security, including sending out security guards into the community to survey the boarded units. Officials are encouraging anyone with information, or who sees any activity, to contact the Blood Tribe Police at (403) 737-3800 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

READ MORE: Blood Tribe to bolster police & housing in effort to tackle drug crisis

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