Durham Regional Police have announced the results of a significant enforcement operation targeting retail theft, resulting in dozens of arrests and charges across the region.
Five-Week Initiative Targets High-Theft Locations
The police force's "Safe Shop" initiative was a concentrated five-week effort that ran from November 10 to December 16, 2025. The operation was specifically designed to combat a surge in shoplifting and related crimes impacting local businesses.
Authorities deployed a multi-unit strategy, combining officers from the East Division Community Response Unit, front-line patrol officers, and specialists from the LCBO Resource Protection Unit. Together, they identified and monitored locations across Durham Region known for high levels of theft.
Significant Enforcement Results
The crackdown led to substantial enforcement action. Police confirmed a total of 64 arrests and the laying of 155 criminal charges.
A notable portion of the arrests was linked to thefts from LCBO stores. Police reported that 17 of the arrests were specifically for LCBO-related incidents, resulting in 32 associated charges.
Furthermore, the charges included a significant number for breach-related offences. Out of the 155 total charges laid, 38 were for breaches, which often involve suspects failing to comply with court-ordered conditions, such as release orders or probation terms.
Strategy Focused on Visibility and Deterrence
A core tactic of the initiative was maintaining a highly visible police presence in retail areas. The goal was not only to catch offenders in the act but also to deter potential criminal activity before it occurred, thereby enhancing safety for shoppers and store employees.
This proactive approach underscores the police service's commitment to addressing property crime, which can have a severe economic impact on businesses and affect community perceptions of safety.
The successful operation highlights the ongoing challenges retailers face with theft and the collaborative efforts between police units to tackle the issue head-on. Durham police have not indicated if similar targeted initiatives are planned for the immediate future.
