Sarnia’s police chief has issued a statement regarding a tweet posted about a woman who was allegedly caught shoplifting, after it received an onslaught of criticism from the community.
The tweet, posted early Friday afternoon, included a photo of several grocery items such as flour tortillas, ice cream and other dairy products, frozen meals, air freshening sprays, and intimate items placed on the back of a police cruiser.
“Strike 3…. YOU ARE GOING FOR BAIL,” the tweet read. “A female was arrested today, after she was caught for the third time this month stealing from the same retail store. She was held for bail to prevent her from continuing to reoffend,” the post concluded. It also included the hashtag “#fivefingerdiscount.”
The post was met with disapproval from many, who acknowledged that while shoplifting is illegal, they also felt it was insensitive to vilify someone on social media for stealing food and common household items.
“Nobody shoplifts pizza pockets and pancake mix for the thrill of it,” read a response from one person on Twitter. “Instead of posting photos like you just made a major drug bust, maybe connect this person with some supports so they don’t need to steal their [expletive] groceries.”
Another person said they feel the officer responsible for publishing the tweet should be terminated.
“Stealing is wrong and they were right to arrest her, but this tweet is disgusting and whoever at [the Sarnia Police Service] is behind it should be fired immediately.”
Following the negative feedback on the post, Sarnia Police Service Chief Derek Davis opted to have it removed, stating it was not “in keeping with our internal and community expectations.”
“Social media is a useful tool for us to keep our community informed of current and emerging issues faced by our public and officers,” read Chief Davis’ statement on the matter. “As an organization, we work hard to ensure our communications are useful and informative, but we do not always get that right.”
Davis added that Sarnia police will be reviewing its social media practices and will share any changes made with its members going forward.
“As a learning organization, we are committed to continuous improvement in everything we do,” Davis concluded.