More uniformed cops in busy holiday shopping areas: Winnipeg police – Winnipeg [Video]

Winnipeg police say they’re launching a safe shopping campaign to kick off the holiday season and to prevent retail theft.

Police announced Wednesday that Winnipeggers should expect to see more uniformed officers in key high-traffic shopping areas across the city throughout December, with the twin goals of deterring crime and having law enforcement available to respond to any incidents. Police will patrol areas identified as high-risk “hot spots” for theft and crime, based on crime data.

Insp. Jennifer McKinnon of the major crimes division announced the holiday initiative Wednesday morning, saying it was about more than stopping theft and also focused on the safety of shoppers and retail workers.

“We are going to be throughout our retail areas in Winnipeg — this is with a view to enforcement but with an emphasis on visible presence,” McKinnon said.

McKinnon said officers from the Major Crimes Division will pick up the extra …