FORT McMURRAY — Seven people have been arrested following a retail crime blitz in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, as RCMP say they continue efforts to curb shoplifting and repeat offending.
Wood Buffalo RCMP say the operation took place between March 17 and 20, in partnership with local businesses and community groups as part of a provincewide initiative targeting retail theft.
Police say five of those arrested were repeat offenders and three outstanding warrants were executed during the enforcement effort.
Among the arrests, 42-year-old Melissa Grandjambe is charged with multiple offences after allegedly stealing a case of vodka from a liquor store in Thickwood. Police say further investigation linked her to three additional thefts, bringing the total value of stolen merchandise to more than $1,800. She faces several counts of theft under $5,000 and failing to comply with probation orders, and was remanded into custody pending a March 30 court appearance.
Susan Janvier, 35, was arrested March 18 following reports of shoplifting at a liquor store and a sporting goods retailer in downtown Fort McMurray. Police allege she left with a bottle of vodka and a bag of merchandise valued at about $430. She is charged with two counts of theft under $5,000 and obstructing a peace officer, and was released on conditions with a May 20 court date.
On March 19, 43-year-old Sheldon Mercredi was arrested after police say he left a grocery store with a bag of unpaid merchandise, including steaks valued at more than $600. He is charged with theft under $5,000 and failing to comply with a release order, and was remanded into custody for an April 1 court appearance.
Acting officer in charge Insp. Troy Switzer says the operation reflects ongoing efforts to address retail crime in the region.
“These operations are a continued demonstration of the Wood Buffalo RCMP’s commitment to crime prevention and community safety,” he said in a statement.
Police are asking anyone with information about criminal activity to contact Wood Buffalo RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
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