R.I.D.E
STPS Officers conducted a RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) checkpoint within the city where more than 70 vehicles were checked. No infractions were observed and no impaired drivers were detected. Thanks for driving sober and keeping our roads safe! ST24023185
Attempt theft of motor vehicle
On December 26th 2024, a St. Thomas resident on the west end of the city called Police to report that sometime overnight, unknown suspect(s) had attempted to steal their vehicle from their laneway however were unsuccessful. Nothing was taken however there was damage to the ignition and steering column. The incident remains under investigation. ST24023187
Fraud
A St. Thomas resident is out nearly $100 000 after falling victim to a job scam. For over a month, the victim was investing money into a company that they believed they were working for however learned that the company was not legitimate and did not actually exist. The matter is currently being investigated by Detectives in the STPS Criminal Investigations Branch. ST24023189
Protecting yourself from fraud
In an ongoing effort to help protect the residents of St. Thomas from falling victim to online scams and fraud, the St. Thomas Police Service would like to remind the community on ways to protect yourself and things to consider while online:
- Always get a second opinion from family or friends regarding the situation
- No employer will reach out to you through apps like Whats App or Telegram
- No employer will ever pay you in crypto currency
- No employer will ask you to invest your own money
- Use the Canadian Anti- Fraud Centre as a resource to familiarize yourself with current scams and additional ways to protect yourself.
- Be very cautious when someone asks you to pay for an item with gift cards
Shoplifting
STPS is currently investigating a shoplifting incident which occurred at a business in the 1000 block of Talbot Street. A male suspect entered the store and concealed clothing in a reusable bag before exiting the store without making any attempt to pay. Police are reviewing video footage in hope of identifying the suspect. ST24023192
Theft & Fail to comply with release order
STPS Officers were contacted to attend a business in the 1063 Talbot Street area for a shoplift in progress. Attending Officers located the 20 yr old suspect where they were arrested and transported back to STPS station. Officers learned that the suspect was on conditions not to attend the store they had stolen from therefore they were charged accordingly and held for court. ST24023193
