Taking steps to create a safe & successful holiday shopping season
Retail theft has a significant impact on our community and the safety of everyone within it. With the holiday season upon us, we are taking proactive steps to address this issue and ensure safety for all.
Expect to see an increased and visible police presence in busy shopping areas across Winnipeg. Using data from crime reports, we are strategically deploying officers to retail locations to help prevent theft, deter criminal activity, and arrest offenders when necessary.
This includes an increased uniform police presence in high traffic shopping areas, as well as proactive enforcement efforts by members of the Major Crimes Division that build on the Service’s retail theft initiative.
The results so far:
Community safety is a shared responsibility
Creating a safe community is a shared responsibility. Everyone – shoppers, retailers, and law enforcement – has a role to play in reducing crime and promoting safety. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in preventing retail theft while enhancing overall community safety.
Our biggest ask of community members and those working in retail is to always put their safety first.
Shoppers: Tips to discourage crime
Your actions can help discourage crimes of opportunity:
- Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings while shopping or parking.
- Secure Your Valuables: Keep packages, electronics, and other valuables out of sight in your vehicle. Park in well-lit areas close to entrances or exits when possible.
- Mind Your Cash: Carry only what you need and stay aware when making withdrawals or handling cash.
- Buy and Sell Safely: If you are buying items through a secondary market, consider when are where you will complete your transaction(s):
- Use designated Buy and Sell Exchange Zones at Winnipeg Police Service Stations for transactions.
- Want to know if an item you plan to buy has been reported stolen? The Canadian Police Information Centre provides an online resource you can use to find out. Searches can be done on property, vehicles, bikes, boats and firearms.
- Conduct transactions in public, during daylight hours, and bring someone with you if possible.
- Only pay once you receive the item and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Retailers: Safety First for You and Your Staff
Retailers and employees are vital partners in creating safer retail spaces. Here's how you can help:
- Prioritize Safety: Your safety and that of your staff and customers come first. Property can be replaced; lives cannot.
- Maintain Distance: If someone creates an unsafe environment, keep a safe distance.
- Call 9-1-1 for Emergencies: When there’s a threat to life or personal safety, call 9-1-1 as soon as it is safe to do so. Such calls are given top priority.
- Report All Thefts: Always report incidents, regardless of the value, using online reporting whenever possible. This helps police track crime trends and plan strategic responses.
- Stay Safe During Incidents: If someone gets away with theft, prioritize personal safety over recovering property.
By working together, we can create a safer and more secure retail environment for everyone – shoppers, retailers, and the broader community.
Let’s make this holiday season safe and enjoyable for all.
Retail Theft Wanted List
The December Winnipeg Crime Stoppers Wanted List is live, featuring individuals who've been naughty, not nice – especially when it comes to retail theft in Winnipeg.
Our partners at Crime Stoppers are shining a spotlight on these wanted individuals as part of their efforts to keep our community safe.
If you recognize someone on the list or have information about their whereabouts, contact Crime Stoppers. Your tip could make a difference!
Retail Theft in the news
December 4: Prolific retail theft suspect arrested by Property Crime Unit: C25-291489
December 4: Property Crime Unit arrests second prolific retail theft suspect in first week of December: C25-222392
December 2: Property Crime Unit investigation leads to arrest of prolific retail theft suspect: C25-289758