BC Coroners Service Reportable Deaths Of Homeless Individuals, 2007 - 2015

This report summarizes deaths between 2007 and 2015 that were reported to the Coroners Service and where the deceased met the BC Coroners Service definition of homeless. Deaths that must be reported to the coroner include all non-natural deaths, and all sudden and unexpected deaths where the person was not under the care of a physician. The report does not include the deaths of homeless individuals that did not meet the legal criteria of the Coroners Act for reporting.

bit.ly/2QO9IJ3 via @bccoroners

Accused Criminals Go Free Due To Shortages Of Sheriffs, Court Staff

In the latest twist on chronic court staff shortages, B.C.'s justice minister has revealed charges in seven criminal cases had to be stayed last year because of unacceptable delays.

Suzanne Anton made the confession in the B.C Legislature during question period Monday, after being grilled by the NDP opposition about another criminal charge that had to be thrown out in Victoria on Friday.

In that case, Justice Robert Johnston entered a stay of proceedings against accused drug dealer Richard D'Allesandro, citing a shortage of sheriffs and blaming "a lack of provincial will to provide necessary resources."

bit.ly/2GFRFQy via @CBCNews

Organ Transplants Surge In BC Because Of Fentanyl-Overdose Deaths

B.C.’s overdose epidemic, especially deaths involving fentanyl, is behind a significant increase in the number of organ transplant donors, according to a B.C. Transplant agency leader.

Experts started to see the trend six months ago when overdoses surged to record highs, said Dr. David Landsberg, provincial medical director of transplant services.

bit.ly/2VycMI5 via @VancouverSun