Retail crime blitz across several Alberta communities leads to 65 arrests

Apr 14, 2026 | 12:10 PM

RCMP in Alberta recently charged 65 people in a retail crime blitz spanning Airdrie, Lloydminster, Parkland, Red Deer, St. Albert, Strathcona County, Wetaskiwin and Wood Buffalo.

The blitz occurred from March 10-20, involving an increase in loss prevention officers, and nearby RCMP members.

S/Sgt. Luke Halvorson says the 65 charged were eventually whittled down to 31 people, who now face 48 total charges.

That includes a 33-year-old man from St. Albert whom police determined was allegedly trying to sell much of the items. He was arrested following a search warrant at his home, which resulted in $26,498 worth of clothing being recovered.

He was charged with:

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Of the 65 original arrests, Halvorson notes 10 were wanted on warrants, and 31 had more than 30 previous charges, thus suggesting a large portion of retail crime is perpetrated by recidivist criminals.

“More frequently we are finding violent recidivist criminals engaging in retail crime, elevating the risk for employees and shoppers alike,” says Halvorson, Community Safety and Well-being Branch. “The Alberta RCMP uses data and intelligence to focus resources. While many other property crime types have decreased, the Alberta RCMP can focus on the rise of retail crime.”

Halvorson shared that in Red Deer, the blitz took place at Southpointe Common, Village Mall, and Bower Place. Eight of the arrests were in Red Deer.

by Josh Hall

Retail crime blitz across several Alberta communities leads to 65 arrests

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