Fredericton’s police chief presented some bleak numbers about the city’s drug overdose situation, prompting councillors to renew calls for swift action on bail reform.

In a presentation to city councillors with the Public Safety Committee, Chief Gary Forward said year-to-date comparisons show overdose calls are three times higher than two years ago.

Between Jan. 1 to Nov. 1, 2023, police responded to 54 overdoses. During that same period in 2024, there were 97 calls. This year, the number is up to 162.

Preliminary data shows fatal overdoses have tripled from three in 2023 to nine so far in 2025.

“Officers are becoming increasingly concerned about the level and frequency of these overdoses, that ties directly to the increase that we’re seeing with serious drugs like fentanyl,” said Forw

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