The Abbotsford Police Department (AbbyPD) has initiated Project Lighthouse, a proactive initiative designed to address the growing issue of shoplifting in our community. This pilot project is spearheaded by
AbbyPD’s Community Engagement Response Team (CERT).
Abbotsford is home to hundreds of businesses—from large retail chains and big-box
stores to small, family-owned shops. During the first half of 2025, AbbyPD recorded a
65% increase in shoplifting-related calls. Community feedback indicates that many
incidents remain unreported due to time constraints and concerns about the justice
process.
Project Lighthouse seeks to change that by strengthening partnerships between
AbbyPD and businesses to improve reporting, deter theft, and enhance public safety.
Key Objectives:
- Protect business owners, employees, and customers.
- Increase identification and apprehension of offenders.
- Reduce shoplifting incidents by Summer 2026.
Participating businesses will feature Project Lighthouse signage at all entry and exit
points, as well as throughout their premises, sending a strong message that every theft
will be reported to police. CERT will work closely with these businesses, addressing
individual concerns related to shoplifting with a clear goal of holding those responsible
for criminal activities accountable.
“No business should face the rise in shoplifting alone. Project Lighthouse is built on
partnership — working side by side with local businesses to prevent theft, streamline
reporting, and build a safer, stronger community together,” says Sergeant Gray of
CERT.
For more information on Project Light House visit: www.abbypd.ca/project-lighthouse
