In a brazen midday incident that has local law enforcement concerned, Sault Ste. Marie Police are actively searching for a male suspect who allegedly walked out of a Food Basics store with merchandise valued at over $200 without making any attempt to pay. The theft, which occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. on September 17, marks the latest in what store employees describe as an increasing pattern of retail theft affecting local businesses.
According to the official police report released through Crime Stoppers, the suspect entered the grocery store located on Trunk Road and proceeded to fill a shopping basket with various items before simply walking past all points of sale. Store security footage captured the man exiting the premises with the stolen goods in hand.
“Retail theft isn’t victimless,” said Detective Sergeant Mark Wilson of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. “These incidents ultimately affect prices for all consumers and create significant challenges for retailers trying to operate in our community.”
The suspect is described as a white male between 25-35 years of age with a medium build and dark hair. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, and white athletic shoes. Police have released surveillance images in hopes that members of the public might recognize the individual.
This incident comes amid growing concerns about retail theft across Canada, with the Retail Council of Canada recently reporting that organized retail crime and shoplifting have increased by approximately 15% in the past year alone. Small to mid-sized communities like Sault Ste. Marie are increasingly feeling the impact of these crimes.
Local business owners have expressed frustration with what they perceive as a rising tide of theft. “We’re seeing more brazen behavior,” said one nearby store manager who requested anonymity. “People aren’t even trying to conceal items anymore—they just walk out with them in plain sight.”
Police are urging anyone with information about this incident or the identity of the suspect to contact Crime Stoppers at 705-942-7867 or 1-800-222-8477. Tips can also be submitted online through the Crime Stoppers website. Those providing information that leads to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward, and all tipsters remain anonymous.
As retailers implement additional security measures and police increase patrols in commercial areas, residents are left wondering: how will our community balance the need for open, welcoming businesses with the growing necessity for loss prevention in an era of increasingly bold retail theft?
