Province Aims to Restrict Sale of Stolen Goods

The market for stolen goods is about to get smaller as the province introduced legislation today to restrict the sale of certain goods at commercial flea markets.

Justice Minister Michael Baker said the legislation is intended to protect the consumer and to thwart the sophisticated shoplifting rings that supply stolen items to commercial flea market vendors.

"The cost of shoplifting comes out of the pocket of every consumer," said Mr. Baker. "We're sending a strong signal to those who sell stolen goods -- we want to take away your ability to do so."

According to Halifax Regional Police, the total value of shoplifting in the metro region was estimated at $18 million in 1999. The Retail Council of Canada estimates that two per cent is added to the retail price of goods to offset the cost of theft, including the need for increased security.

Retailers brought their concerns regarding the sale of stolen goods at commercial flea markets to government in 1997. They said new and brand-name items, still packaged, were available for sale in large quantities. Popular items include razor blades, skin creams, brand-name tools and pre-recorded videos.

Under the legislation, these types of items cannot be sold unless they have been obtained directly from the manufacturer or wholesaler and proof of acquisition is available. The onus will be on the operator of the flea market to ensure documentation is available.

Vendors will also be required to provide flea market operators with the brand, make, model and serial numbers of big-ticket items. Flea market operators would then be required to keep the forms and produce them for law enforcement officers if requested.

Peter O'Brien of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business said the proposed legislation is exactly what the retail sector needs.

"It doesn't interfere in any way with the legitimate sale of merchandise in flea markets or other areas," said Mr. O'Brien. "We appreciate the commitment from the minister and his officials and look forward to it becoming law."

"The RCMP is pleased that the province is bringing forth this legislation," said Inspector Ian Atkins of the RCMP's Criminal Operations Branch.

On average, the RCMP in Nova Scotia investigates about 9,000 cases of theft under $5,000 and possession of stolen goods a year.

"This is a positive piece of legislation for legitimate vendors," said Mr. Atkins.