FORT ST. JOHN -- The latest crime statistics from Fort St. John indicate a sharp decrease in shoplifting incidents in October.
In his monthly report, Staff Sergeant Scott Watson revealed that shoplifting cases dropped from 30 in September to 20 last month. Watson highlighted "significant reductions" at the local Walmart, which followed RCMP advice to hire additional security guards at its exits.
“An interesting drop was seen at Walmart, where they took the advice of Sgt. Croll and hired additional security officers to cover the exits. This has significantly reduced shoplifting at that location,” read the report set to be presented to council on November 12th.
The Walmart, located on 96A Street, has been a focal point for city officials, police, and residents. A large homeless encampment set up on a trail next to the store's parking lot led to the collection of 50 shopping carts during a clean-up effort late September.
However, while shoplifting has decreased, thefts from vehicles remain a concern. There were 24 cases reported last month, up from nine in September, primarily targeting hunters and hotel parking lots.
