In response to a spike in retail thefts across St. Thomas, local police have wrapped up a targeted enforcement initiative dubbed “Project Carts and Robbers”
The St. Thomas Police Service’s Street Crime and Property Crime Unit launched the project in July, focusing on 1063 Talbot Street, home to high-traffic retailers like Walmart and the Real Canadian Superstore.
The location had recorded the highest number of theft-related calls in the city.
The initiative was carried out over four days during peak hours identified through crime trend analysis. Working closely with store loss prevention officers, the project aimed to reduce theft, apprehend suspects, and improve overall crime prevention strategies.
Results from Project Carts and Robbers included:
- 17 Criminal Code charges laid (including two drug-related charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act)
- 3 individuals arrested on outstanding warrants
- 2 Highway Traffic Act charges issued
- Stolen vehicle recovered (valued at $16,000)
- $100 in merchandise recovered
- 1 gram of fentanyl and 10 hydromorphone tablets seized
- Prohibited weapon (brass knuckles) recovered
Police say the operation also provided valuable intelligence for ongoing investigations and strengthened collaboration with local retailers.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
