SASKATOON - Update, May 27, 9:19 a.m.: The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) has successfully completed two, two-day retail blitz operations on Confederation Drive.
On May 7 and 8 and May 21 and 22, officers conducted an overt operation called Project Shield around businesses that have been experiencing an increase in crime.
Prolific shoplifters have become more common and violent, often concealing/producing weapons during the theft. Police encountered this, along with aggressive panhandling, intoxicated people and illicit drug use during the four days of the blitz.
In total, 22 people were arrested, 15 of whom are considered to be repeat or violent offenders. Three weapons were seized, 19 charges laid and over $1,500 worth of stolen property was recovered.
The response from Loss Prevention Officers, businesses/staff and customers was positive and SPS is beginning to plan the next retail blitz, this summer.
Original post, May 8, 10:30 a.m.: The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) is focusing enforcement efforts on retail crime in Saskatoon, following a steady increase in the trend.
Businesses in the city have experienced a rise in prolific and violent offenders entering into stores; in many cases, shoplifting is observed, weapons are present along with an increased threat of escalated violence towards staff, Loss Prevention Officers (LPO’s)/security personnel and shoppers.
Project SHIELD coincides with the Retail Council of Canada’s “Retail Blitz,” which targets retail crime across the country. SPS officers will have a visible presence in the 200, 300 and 400 blocks of Confederation Drive over two days - May 7 and 8. Working alongside store LPOs and security personnel, SPS will focus on identifying and arresting offenders for a range of crimes such as theft, robbery, weapons possession, breach charges and executing outstanding warrants. Education will be provided to less-prolific offenders under certain circumstances.
The goal of Project SHIELD is to successfully apprehend violent and repeat offenders to reduce the risk of harm to the public and store employees/security, while also mitigating financial damage incurred by businesses.
Police are asking people to help during this project - and every day - by reporting crimes and suspicious activity they may come across.
To report a crime, call 306-975-8300 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
