Police in Halifax have arrested and charged a man accused of stealing thousands of dollars worth of merchandise in at least 14 shoplifting incidents.
In total, the man faces 62 charges.
According to Halifax Regional Police (HRP), the thefts took place between Feb. 10 and April 12 from a “number of different” retailers — mostly large big box stores.
As well, police said the man did not show up to a court date on March 23 and a warrant had been issued for his arrest.
The suspect was arrested Wednesday night.
Brandon Germaine Rogers, 35, was scheduled to appear in Halifax court on Thursday to face 14 counts of theft under $5,000, 13 counts of possession of property obtained by crime, 34 counts of breaching a court order and one count of failing to appear.
HRP spokesperson Const. John MacLeod called it a “significant” number of theft charges, and noted that retail theft complaints have increased in the past couple of years.
“The increase is not specific to Halifax. It’s a national trend, unfortunately we’re not immune to that,” MacLeod said.
He said police are working with retailers and the greater community to address the spike in cases.