Key performance measures in the BC Sheriff Service

This paper provides a mixed-method analysis of existing performance indicators in the provision of court security across Canada. In addition, it will provide recommendations on the development and implementation of performance metrics to the British Columbia Sheriff Service (BCSS) in the provision of court security. BCSS is charged under provincial statute and regulation to provide security to all levels of the provincial justice system, including BC Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, and Provincial Court. This includes provision of security for all types of trials held in a wide variety of facilities in various locations across the province. The BCSS has several key performance indicators in place that are used by the organization to measure effectiveness in various business areas including financial, human resources, and vehicle utilization. There is not, however, established performance metrics currently used to monitor or report on the operational effectiveness in the provision of security services, a core area of business for BCSS.