The Sarnia Police Service is touting the success of its recent crackdown on shopping cart thefts in the city.
On Thursday, December 19, members of the Auxiliary Unit worked to collect stolen and abandoned shopping carts from various locations across the city.
Police said they were returned to their owners which helps mitigate the high cost of crime, the value of which is often passed on to consumers.
In a news release, Chief Derek Davis said the shopping cart project is part of several long term initiatives intended to deal with prolific thievery and its impact within the community.
“We always have opportunities in our city to explore new policing approaches," said Davis. "As an example, if we think way back to the Broken Windows Theory, visible signs of disorder and misbehaviour could be responsible for encouraging further disorder and misbehaviour. These stolen and abandoned carts, highly visible and strewn around our community, are symbolic of the need for new approaches. The SPS continues to implement new initiatives to help protect our residents and businesses from crime and disorder."
The shopping cart project also includes an escalating phased approach, involving education and referral to support services.
Offenders are encouraged to return these stolen items.
Earlier this month, police said this year alone, approximately 650 carts have been stolen from area retailers.
Police said those taking shopping carts are engaging in theft and can be charged with theft under $5,000 and/or possession of stolen property.
The Auxiliary Unit is a team of trained police volunteers who take part in community initiatives and special events to free up front line officers.
Those interested in joining can learn more on the Sarnia Police Service's website.