A recent retail theft project undertaken by VicPD resulted in 17 arrests and thousands of dollars in recovered merchandise.
The project, carried out between Nov. 29 and Dec. 1, targeted prolific property crime offenders, according to police, and was launched in response to concerns from retail and security staff about an increase in violence and safety concerns related to shoplifting, according to a news release.
In total, $5,000 of stolen merchandise was recovered and weapons were seized as part of the project’s arrests, which included knives, bear spray, and airsoft replica pistols.
The stolen merchandise included high-end jackets and athletic gear, Lego, and other toys.
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