In BC and across Canada, employers routinely request a criminal record check as part of the application process. It is estimated that nearly 4 million Canadians have a criminal record, and almost 90 per cent of those remain open. As such, job seekers must often provide a criminal record check in BC.

Overall, when looking at the crime severity index in Canada, BC ranks seventh out of 13 provinces and territories. However, some shifting numbers may push employers to start requesting criminal record checks more often.

Crime Statistics in BC

From 2016 to 2021, four of the five fastest-growing metropolitan areas in Canada were in BC, including Kelowna, Chilliwack, Kamloops, and Nanaimo. During that time, Kelowna ranked first, growing by 14 per cent.

Unfortunately, a rapid increase in crime has accompanied that rapid population growth. In 2019 and 2020, Kelowna ranked third overall in the country for crime rates. And last year, Kelowna had the highest rate in the country with 11,112 per 100,000 residents, a year-over-year increase of 10 per cent.

The major issues driving these statistics include:

  • Opioid-related offences
  • Child pornography
  • Shoplifting
  • Mischief
  • Fraud

So, what does this mean for job seekers?

Why Would Employers Request a Criminal Record Check in BC?

Employers want to know if you have criminal offences related to any job duties. For example, employers working in the financial sector will want to know if you committed fraud. Likewise, employers in retail will want to know if you’ve been convicted of shoplifting.

According to law, job seekers looking to work with children or vulnerable adults will need to undergo a vulnerable sector check for sexual offences, meaning charges related to child pornography will disqualify a candidate.

Based on the statistics discussed above, these are the sort of criminal charges employers in Kelowna will be mindful of. But this may change depending on the type of work the job involves. Before requesting a criminal record check in BC, be sure to discuss with your employer the type of background check they need.

Need a Criminal Record Check in BC Fast?

Triton has the dedicated resources to complete your criminal record check in BC as quickly and securely as possible. We can get you the results you need within just 15 minutes. Simply fill in your information, pay using our secure methods, and you’ll receive your results via email. It’s that simple!

Download our app or visit our website to get your criminal record check in BC today.