The Waterloo Regional Police Service has successfully concluded its Retail Crime Safety Blitz, which ran throughout December 2025 across Waterloo Region.

Members of WRPS’ Crime Suppression Analysis and Response Unit (CSAR) and Community Policing conducted targeted enforcement in identified problem areas, based on crime analysis and community needs. This initiative was conducted through extensive investigations in collaboration with retail partners and asset protection teams, targeting the growing issue of retail theft across the region. 

As a result of the blitz:

• 54 theft investigations were conducted
• 56 individuals were arrested (ages 14 to 60)
• 62 charges were laid
• 8 individuals arrested on outstanding warrants

Officers recovered over $6,700 in stolen property including sporting jerseys, clothing, high-end cosmetics, gift cards, and personal hygiene products.

WRPS continues to work closely with the Retail Council of Canada- National Retail Crime Taskforce (RCC) and other retail partners to combat retail and organized crime.

The Waterloo Regional Police would like to remind the members of the public to report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to police immediately. Timely reporting helps officers respond quickly and keep our community safe.