It is not uncommon for crime in and near shopping malls to increase during the busy Christmas season. This week, the Abbotsford Police Department launched “Project Blitzen” - an initiative aimed at interrupting and stopping theft from retail outlets and automobiles in and around major retail centers.
In just three days, officers connected with over 30 shop owners and managers to discuss the proactive steps they could take to protect their businesses. Officers have responded to 22 files over the past three days alone, resulting in 7 arrests and numerous other suspects confronted and prevented from stealing.
Project Blitzen presented some interesting arrests that demonstrate the prevalence of retail crime:
Tuesday- A male was released from custody for a shoplifting incident in the morning. A few hours later, he was again arrested for stealing from a local mall. Later the same day, he was arrested for a third time stealing from yet another shopping mall. That is three separate arrests in less than 24 hours.
Project Blitzen officers responded to a shoplifter that had been apprehended by a store’s loss prevention officer. Upon arrival, officers encountered another known shoplifter exiting the same store; officers located more stolen merchandise on this person.
Inspector Jason Burrows, Officer in Charge of the Patrol Division states “This project yielded impressive results. Acting Sergeant Maniwa assembled and lead a fantastic group of police officers committed to combating theft and property crime in our community.”
This project utilized tactics by both uniformed and undercover officers. It is impossible to know the full impact of this initiative; however, it is believed that a significant number of thefts from autos and retail outlets were prevented.
Project Blitzen is one of the many crime prevention initiatives the AbbyPD will be undertaking to reduce property crime in our community. We encourage everyone – shoppers and businesses alike - to be vigilant during this busy holiday season and take the necessary precautions such as:
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle;
If you need to keep valuables in your vehicle, keep them out of sight (ie: trunk);
Be aware of your surroundings;
Report suspicious activity.
Taking preventative action reduces the chances of falling victim to property crime.