The Saskatoon Police Service Community Mobilization Unit (CMU) recently completed a high visibility retail blitz around multiple Saskatoon shopping areas.

Over the course of five days, CMU conducted this initiative with a visible police presence in the 300 and 400 blocks of Confederation Drive, Preston Crossing Retail Area, and 8th St East. With a goal of proactively deterring and addressing crime, our officers provided education, built on existing partnerships, conducted high visibility patrols, and engaged with the community.

Through this project, 13 people were arrested, resulting in charges from theft, to breaching court-imposed conditions, drug possession, and weapons related charges. 19 warrants were also executed for Criminal Code offences, Provincial Statutes, and Bylaws.

More than $800 worth of property was recovered for retailers. Officers also recovered a mountain bike and two pairs of prescription sunglasses, three items with a combined value of around $1800.

An additional ten people were arrested for public intoxication throughout this time.

Prolific shoplifters have become more common and violent, often concealing or producing weapons during the theft. The purpose of this initiative is to provide safer public spaces in the City of Saskatoon by providing a visible police presence, enforcing the Criminal Code, Traffic Safety Act, bylaws and the Safe Public Spaces Act.

Police thank our retail partners and community for their assistance throughout this initiative. Community members are encouraged to continue reporting crime and suspicious activity in retail spaces to police by calling 306-975-8300 or, in an emergency, 9-1-1.