Tavistock LCBO targeted by group of thieves

Oxford OPP is looking for suspects after a large quantity of alcohol was stolen from the Tavistock LCBO on Sunday afternoon. Photo courtesy of Oxford OPP

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Members of the Oxford OPP are searching for suspects after they stole a large quantity of alcohol from the LCBO on Hope Street West in Tavistock.

The incident took place late Sunday afternoon when no patrons were in the store. Police say $4,700 worth of booze was taken and they released a photo array of the alleged suspects earlier this week on Facebook.

The Gazette reached out to the LCBO’s media relations department and received a statement.

“Shop theft is an unfortunate reality in the retail industry, and we are continuously looking for ways to minimize its impact while keeping our employees and customers safe,” the statement said.  

The organization said it takes several steps to try and reduce the amount of stolen goods in stores across Ontario.

“We employ many measures to mitigate or prevent theft including CCTV, security guards and a plain clothes task force, and are committed to piloting new initiatives which help to mitigate theft in our stores and create a safer environment.” 

The Tavistock store has not utilized security guards in the past and a follow-up question inquiring if they would now was not answered by press time.

The LCBO trains employees to help bring perpetrators to justice.

“Our employees receive regular, mandatory training in theft detection, deterrence and reporting. This training focuses on personal safety, observation and gathering information to support police investigations. LCBO employees who physically confront shoplifters put themselves, their colleagues and our customers at risk,” the statement reads.

Workers are forbidden to take any action even when they see someone stealing alcohol or other products from a store. The LCBO explained it works to help police solve crimes.

“Just because someone walks out of LCBO with a bottle, doesn't mean that they get away with the crime. Through our collaboration with police services across the province, we continue to hold criminals accountable even after they have left the store,” the LCBO said.