Violence is up 300%, stores say

Recent bust of retail theft ring tip of the iceberg, police warn

- JASON MILLER

York police said that retail thieves used "booster bags," which are lined with foil compartments to outwit store security measures. The Retail Council of Canada said reported incidents of retail theft that involve some forms of violence have increased 300 per cent over the past four years.

In the wake of newly announced charges against dozens of people for their alleged roles in a loosely organized web of theft rings in York Region rings that reportedly stole tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise a Canadian retail agency is warning of a spike in violence during similar robberies.

The Retail Council of Canada told the Star on Friday that reported incidents of retail theft that involve some forms of violence have increased 300 per cent over the past four years.

Many of these thefts go unreported, said the retail council's spokesperson, Michelle Wasylyshen.

"Retail theft is often thought of as a victimless crime, but it's not. It costs Canadian retailers billions of dollars a year costs that are borne by all consumers when they go shopping," Wasylyshen said. "Business owners are concerned for the safety of their customers and employees."