News release

Project Barcode Continues Success as Kelowna RCMP Target Shoplifting

December 17, 2025 - Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP

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Kelowna RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) launched Project Barcode in 2024 and, seeing its continued success, have carried the initiative forward in partnership with loss prevention officers and local retailers to crack down on shoplifting. The most recent operation was the third run of the project and took place from December 8–12, 2025.

Officers in both uniform and plainclothes targeted shoplifters by working closely with loss prevention officers from several retailers. As a result, a total of 61 arrests were made, leading to 46 criminal investigations, while the remaining files were referred to Restorative Justice programs and resulted in retail banning notices being issued by the affected businesses. Approximately $11,000 worth of stolen merchandise was also recovered during the operation.

Of those arrested, five individuals had outstanding arrest warrants for previously committed crimes and were held in custody to appear in court. The remaining individuals were released with future court appearance dates and on conditions not to attend the victim businesses.

In the 2024 launch of Project Barcode, 47 people were arrested, resulting in 38 criminal investigations. Of those 38 investigations, 23 reports were submitted to the BC Prosecution Service, resulting in 20 approved charges and 11 convictions to date, while 7 investigations remain pending before the courts.

“For this most recent Project Barcode, BC Prosecution Service has assigned a dedicated Crown Counsel to the project, making the project a truly collaborative effort,” said Sgt. Scott Powrie of the Kelowna RCMP Crime Reduction Unit. “These results are only possible through collaboration with local businesses and loss prevention officers, and we will continue conducting targeted initiatives to address persistent shoplifting and support our community.”

In addition to Project Barcode, Kelowna RCMP has a Recurrent Offender Crime Team, which focuses on identifying and arresting repeat shoplifters. The team, comprised of one regular member and two Watch Support Officers, has seen significant success in 2025. Year to date, the team has targeted 12 repeat shoplifters, recommending 173 charges to the BC Prosecution Service.

“These enforcement efforts are part of our approach to reducing property crime,” said Cpl Allison Konsmo, Media Relations Officer. “By working closely with businesses and community partners, we are strengthening prevention, improving safety, and ensuring those affected feel supported.”

To learn more about how to protect your business, visit the City of Kelowna’s Business Safety Toolkit 

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