Winnipeg police: Retail theft initiative has seen almost 800 arrests [Video]

Nearly 800 arrests and more than $65,000 in merchandise have been recovered, according to new police data about the retail theft initiative.

The third quarter report from Acting Chief of Police Arthur Stannard outlined details about how the initiative has been going to date.

Between June 8 and Oct. 31, police made 781 arrests and handed out 224 tickets.

As well, officers were able to recover more than $65,438 in merchandise.

Police also engaged with stores 4,017 times and individuals more than 2,300 times in the five-month period.

Stannard said the initiative has been using a “three-pronged” approach—officers from the major crimes division, community relations division, and the divisional community support units—to reduce crime.

The Manitoba government said near the end of October that the program would continue to be supported through the holiday season, and Stannard noted police plan to continue their current approach.

As well, more details are …