The Rise of Youth Crime in Saskatchewan: A Call for Understanding and Action
Crime rates among youth in Saskatchewan have become a growing concern, with more young individuals being drawn into criminal activities. This trend has sparked discussions about the root causes and potential solutions to address this issue. At the heart of this conversation is Desiree Laliberte, a former gang member turned advocate, whose personal journey offers profound insights into the complexities of crime and redemption. Laliberte, a member of the Métis community from Green Lake, has dedicated her life to helping others break free from the cycle of crime through her work with STR8 UP, an organization that provides support and programming for individuals seeking to leave street life behind. Her story sheds light on the systemic issues driving youth involvement in crime and the importance of community support in fostering positive change.
A Life Shaped by Trauma and Resilience
Desiree Laliberte’s journey into the world of crime began at a young age, marked by abuse and addiction within her family. By the time she was 13, she had already joined a gang, seeking a sense of belonging and escape from the pain of her childhood. “It definitely had an impact on my mental and emotional state, which then led me to look for my own family. That led me to the street life,” she reflects. Laliberte’s experiences are a stark reminder of how unresolved trauma and family dysfunction can push vulnerable youth toward criminal behavior. Now 36, she acknowledges that gangs remain a prevalent issue in her community, with many young people facing similar challenges to those she endured. Her story underscores the deep-seated roots of crime, often stemming from home environments plagued by generational trauma and systemic neglect.
The Cycle of Trauma and Crime in Indigenous Communities
Laliberte points to the broader societal issues affecting Indigenous communities, particularly the intergenerational trauma that has been passed down through families. “There’s a lot of pain and struggle within our Indigenous society. It’s that lineage we carry from our generational trauma or our trauma from our families,” she explains. This cycle of pain often manifests in substance abuse, violence, and criminal behavior, as young people struggle to cope with their circumstances. Laliberte notes that gangs are now recruiting more youth than ever before, exploiting their vulnerability and lack of support. This trend highlights the urgent need for intervention and healing within these communities, as well as greater societal awareness of the root causes of crime.
The Alarming Rise of Youth Crime in Saskatchewan
The rise in youth crime is not just anecdotal; it is supported by alarming statistics. Saskatoon Police Chief Cam McBride reports a significant increase in incidents involving weapons, particularly bear spray. In 2024 alone, there were 367 bear spray incidents, with 31 more reported in the first month of 2025. “You have to ask, where is it coming from and how is it getting into the hands of people who are using it for a criminal purpose?” McBride questions. Laliberte, however, offers a stark reality check: accessing such weapons is often easier than one might think. “You can walk into a corner store and go inside and see bear mace behind the counters, you can see weapons behind the counters,” she reveals. This accessibility underscores the need for stricter regulations and community-based solutions to curb the proliferation of weapons among youth.
Breaking the Cycle: The Power of Healing and Support
For Laliberte, the journey toward healing began with finding support from others who understood her experiences. She credits STR8 UP with playing a transformative role in her life, helping her reconnect with her culture and pursue education. “I’ve been living sober. [STR8 UP] got me involved in programming. They’ve taken me back to my culture, and I’m involved in school now. I’m trying to better my future by staying positive and staying resilient,” she says. Laliberte’s story highlights the importance of culturally grounded support systems and the power of community in breaking the cycle of crime. By providing youth with opportunities for healing and growth, organizations like STR8 UP offer a lifeline to those struggling with trauma and addiction.
A Voice for Change: Advocacy and Empowerment
Desiree Laliberte’s journey from gang life to advocacy is a testament to the human capacity for resilience and transformation. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others to find their voice and seek help. “We’re meant to be silenced,” she says. “A lot of us are just learning to speak out about it. It’s hard. It’s hard to get our youth to speak up about it. But, with the right voices and people coming forward, it will make it easier for youth to feel comfortable about speaking out.” Laliberte’s advocacy serves as a call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and individuals to address the root causes of crime and support those affected by it. Her story reminds us that healing is possible, but it requires collective effort and compassion. By amplifying voices like Laliberte’s, we can work toward creating a future where no child has to endure the pain she experienced, and where every young person has the chance to thrive.
