During February and March 2026, the Waterloo Regional Police Service’s South Division Direct Action Response Team (DART) conducted a focused enforcement operation targeting retail theft along the Hespeler Road and Franklin Boulevard corridors. The initiative resulted in significant enforcement outcomes and strengthened partnerships with local businesses.

Throughout the operation, South DART officers investigated 37 retail thefts and laid 75 criminal charges, including 57 theft‑related charges and 18 additional Criminal Code offences identified during the course of those investigations.

A key focus of the operation was addressing repeat and organized theft activity. Police determined that 17 of the investigated thefts involved suspected repeat offenders. In addition, two incidents were believed to be connected to organized crime, allowing officers to disrupt more coordinated criminal behaviour.

The operation relied on proactive, intelligence‑led strategies, including directed patrols and close collaboration with loss prevention staff at retail locations, enabling timely response and effective evidence gathering.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service will continue to utilize targeted enforcement initiatives and work closely with community and business partners to address retail theft, disrupt repeat offenders, and enhance safety in commercial areas across Waterloo Region.