Business Watch

RCMP Business Releases

Business Watch - Robberies

A robbery at a business is when a theft take place and where violence or threat of violence occurs towards any staff present. If a person makes verbal or written demand for money or merchandise, the demand alone is a sufficient enough threat of violence to classify the event as a robbery vs theft.

An armed robbery at a business is when there is a threat of a weapon, or weapon is produced during the theft. This includes imitation weapons.

A few things to remember when it comes to the safety of your employees and customers if a robbery does occur at your business:

• Cooperate with the robber for your own safety and the safety of others. Comply with a robber’s demands.
• Put your safety first. Your personal safety is more important than money or merchandise.
• Make mental notes of the robber’s physical description and other observations important to law enforcement officers.
• Note their direction of travel when they leave.
• Try to get a description of the vehicle ONLY if you can do so without exposing yourself to harm.

Immediately following a robbery it is imperative that you call police, even if you have already activated an alarm.

• Close the store and lock the door(s) if you have a key.
• Ask any witnesses to stay until police arrive. If they cannot, get their names, phone numbers and addresses.
• Do not touch anything that the robber may have touched.

Ensure you take the time to discuss safety plans with your staff so everyone is aware and informed.

Events such as these can have an emotional impact on staff and customers. StrathconaCounty Victim Services offer support for victims of these types of crimes. For more information check out www.strathcona.ca/community-families/well-being-and-mental-health/victim-services.