Seventeen people are facing criminal charges following a series of targeted police operations addressing retail theft at a downtown business along Rideau Street.
According to the Ottawa Police Service, officers with the Central District Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT) launched the enforcement blitz in response to ongoing complaints from a local business located in the 300 block of Rideau Street, just east of King Edward Avenue. The merchant reported that repeated incidents of shoplifting were significantly impacting store operations and their bottom line.
Operating in close collaboration with the establishment's loss prevention personnel, NRT officers conducted targeted operations at various times throughout the initiative.
As a result of the coordinated weeks-long effort, police executed a search warrant and laid a total of 17 criminal charges against 17 individuals. In addition to the criminal counts, officers issued seven Provincial Offence Notices.
Police are encouraging other local merchants and downtown businesses to maintain communication by reporting theft-related incidents and suspicious activities promptly.
"This initiative reflects the Ottawa Police Service's commitment to proactive problem-solving, crime prevention, and community safety through strong partnerships with local businesses and stakeholders," police said in a public statement. Authorities added that officers will continue maintaining active engagement with retailers across the downtown core to protect shoppers, business owners, and visitors.