Four arrested after Halton police crack down on liquor store robberies in Oakville

Four people were arrested during a Halton police retail theft blitz at liquor stores in Oakville.

Earlier this month, Halton officers conducted strategic enforcement at a number of LCBO locations in Oakville. Over the three-day project, four individuals were arrested for thefts of liquor valued at more than $2,500.

Police said two of the individuals arrested were found to be in possession of signal jamming devices and large magnets used to defeat theft detection technology often placed in stores. Police also recovered perfume stolen from a nearby Shoppers Drug Mart valued at approximately $3,500.

A total of nine charges were laid in connection with these investigations and two of the four individuals involved in these theft investigations were the subject of recent deportation hearings.

“Retail crime is a growing problem that is impacting retailers across the country,” said HRPS Superintendent Bob Gourley.

“Retail theft is not a victimless crime, as it hits all consumers through price inflation and is often orchestrated by organized crime groups. Additionally, retail crime has a potential for violence that impacts the well-being of those employed in this area of the economy.”

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Retail Theft Unit at 905-825-4777.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or at the website.