Surveillance video released as Saskatoon police look for needle-dropping suspect

Saskatoon police are on the hunt for a suspect intentionally dropping needles in school parks and playgrounds.

Surveillance video posted on the Saskatoon Police Service’s (SPS) Facebook page shows a person in a hoodie at a playground on two separate nights.

Police say they became aware of several needles being found in parks and playgrounds of schools in the 1000 block of Hampton Circle and 400 block of Avenue W South in July and August.

Officers say since then they’ve received more reports and believe the person in the video is responsible.

“He is described as a slim male in his late 30’s or early 40’s with stubble on his face, a mole on the cheek under his right eye, and a height between 5 foot 8 inches and 5 foot 11 inches tall. He has been observed on separate occasions wearing darker clothing while carrying a maroon/black backpack and walking stick,” SPS said.

Parents, guardians and educators are being warned to stay vigilant and observant when accessing parks and playgrounds.

“We are asking parents and caregivers to discuss this with their children,” read a statement from St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic School. “Students should report any hazard to a teacher and staff, and to never touch or try to dispose of hazards themselves.”

The school said it will also be sharing information about how staff safety dispose of needles when found.

“When needles, broken glass, or any other potential safety hazards are found on school grounds, school staff follow safety protocols outlined by the Saskatoon Fire Department to safely remove and dispose them. If students find hazards, they are to notify a teacher or staff member and stay clear of the area until items are properly disposed.”

Saskatoon Public Schools said they also be following city guidelines for needle disposal to keep students safe.

“When needles or sharps are found on playgrounds, our staff cordon off the area until it can be safely cleaned up by custodial staff or the Saskatoon Fire Department,” read a statement from the division. “The school division follows the City of Saskatoon guidelines for needle disposal and students are reminded to alert an adult if they spot needles, sharps, glass or other hazardous materials.”