Introduction

Prior to the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Victoria was experiencing an economic downturn, which not only resulted in an increase of crime in parks and suburban locations, but also put a strain on the city’s coffers. This sparked a public debate during a period of elections with the public demanding an additional fifteen police officers.[1]

Alfred J. Morley, the mayor of Victoria in 1913, stated that the current amount of police officers, numbering at 48 (1 per 600 people), was sufficient for the population at the time. However, critics to this statement suggested the number was truly equal to a population of 30,000 – which was only 2/3rds of the real population of Victoria (45,500).[2] Morley continued to support the opinion that the ratio was sufficient as Victoria did not have any slums nor a troublesome waterfront that plagued cities such as Vancouver at the time.

The calls for an increase in the police force continued, and women interest groups suggested the hiring of female officers, who would be better at handling difficult cases dealing with the young, especially young girls.

In March 1913, the Victoria Police department suffered the loss of Sergeant Clayards, a 14 year veteran of the police force; who was well renowned for his sterling honesty and his attention to detail.[3]

The Police Commissioners finally decided in the summer of 1913 to expand the police force by an additional 6 police officer, despite the period of financial stringency. The Commissioners, and Mayor Morley both agreed and expressed their desires for 2 of the 6 new officers to be women.

These newly appointed police officers would be instrumental in the coming years after the outbreak of the First World War; where 17 of their fellow officers would enlist for military service. Nevertheless, the VicPD continued to protect the City of Victoria to the best of its ability given the circumstances. Crime continued, but the most prominent event would be the riot in 1915 after news of the R.M.S. Lusitania reached Victoria.

In 1924, the Victoria Police Department had a total of 53 officers, including those who returned from military service to resume their duties as officers of the law.

References

[1] “City Suffers with Inadequate Police; Lack of Protection in Parks and in Suburban Districts; Mayor Says One for 600 is Fair Figure; Ex-Mayor States That the Force Required 15 Additional Men.” The Daily Colonist, 24 March 1913.

[2] “Victoria City Noted for Absence of Major Crimes.” British Colonist. 22 November 1924.