Email icon Back to Search

In April 2025, the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) 1 District (St. Catharines/Thorold) Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit (CORE) continued its targeted 3P (Past the Point of Purchase) anti-shoplifting initiative in partnership with local retailers.

Over a focused two-day enforcement period, CORE officers arrested 21 individuals for shoplifting offences. Working collaboratively with retail loss prevention officers, this project aims to deter retail theft, educate the public, and hold accountable those responsible for thefts and frauds in commercial settings. As a result, seven individuals were charged criminally, while others were issued charges under provincial statutes.

Approximately $2,600 in stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to participating stores.

Since its launch in September 2024, the 3P initiative by 1 District CORE officers has resulted in 111 arrests, 80 criminal charges, and the recovery of over $20,000 in stolen merchandise. Officers will continue this initiative in the coming months to reduce the impact of retail theft on local businesses.

Community members seeking assistance related to retail theft may contact the lead investigator, Sergeant Richardson, at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009293.

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.  Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.

Click Here For Crime Stoppers Online