Surveillance film shows that Nike stores are a frequent target of criminals. Footage from Peel Regional Police.<\/p>\n
Stolen items from major retail stores often end up at local discount outlets, on Facebook Marketplace and at flea markets in Mississauga and Brampton.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s according to Peel Regional Police, who announced today that dozens of \u201cprolific offenders\u201d have been arrested and face more than 500 criminal charges in connection with thefts at local stores.<\/p>\n
Between February and April, Project Filcher focused on retailers experiencing a significant surge in thefts, including Nike, LCBO, Winners and Walmart. Combined, more than 350 theft incidents resulted in over a quarter-million dollars worth of stolen merchandise.<\/p>\n
\u201cThrough a coordinated, intelligence-led investigation, officers identified and located repeat offenders believed to be responsible for a substantial number of these incidents,\u201d police said. \u201cAs a result, Project Filcher led to the arrest of 65 individuals and the laying of 545 charges related to retail theft offences.\u201d<\/p>\n
At a news conference this afternoon (May 21), police said organized crime is often behind the thefts. Investigators said stolen items are sometimes sold to smaller retail outlets or discount shops, but can also be found online, at informal markets, or shipped to foreign destinations.<\/p>\n
Police said criminal networks also exploit drug users or people who owe them money by forcing them to steal on their behalf.<\/p>\n
Peel Deputy Chief Marc Andrews said it\u2019s a way to pay off their debts to organized crime.<\/p>\n
Andrews went on to say Project Filcher is ongoing as police work to hold offenders \u2014 especially those with a history of such crimes \u2014 accountable and protect businesses in the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cOrganized retail theft is not a victimless crime because it drives up costs, impacts livelihoods and undermines public safety,\u201d he said. \u201cThrough proactive, intelligence-led policing and strong partnerships with retailers, our officers have disrupted criminal activity and made our communities safer.\u201d<\/p>\n
To see a list of those who have been charged, you can follow this link<\/a>.<\/p>\n