Top headlines from Vancouver and beyond, May 18 2011:

The B.C. Government announces the creation of a civilian-led body to oversee police. The move comes after several high profile incidents of police violence and a recent Canada-wide survey finding that British Columbians’ trust in the RCMP is among the lowest in Canada.

In related news, the B.C. government has also appointed a special prosecutor to determine whether charges should be laid against the investigators of the infamous Surrey Six murders. It was earlier revealed that one of the investigators had an “inappropriate relationship” with a key witness.

The North Vancouver journalist who was detained in Syria and shipped to Iran while attempting to cover the Middle Eastern uprising has been released.

Lone NPA Councillor Suzanne Anton announces her mayoral candidacy.

Translink is considering usage charges on public roadways to fund infrastructure improvements and to drive transportation choice.

BORED AT WORK BONUS: The Mystery of the Tainted Cocaine