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The Surge of Violent and Brazen Retail Crime in Canadian Cities 

March 19, 2025

8:45 am

- 9:30 am

Speakers:

Joe Matthews

Staff Superintendent

Toronto Police Service, Detective Operations

Joe Matthews

Staff Superintendent

Staff Superintendent Joe Matthews has dedicated 33 years to the Toronto Police Service. Starting as a Cadet in October 1991, Joe has amassed significant investigative knowledge and experience as an active member working in various divisions and specialized units including: Hold-Up Squad, Guns and Gangs, Drug Squad, Intelligence Services – Covert Operations, Missing and Missed Project Team, Strategy Management Unit, Professional Standards, and as a seconded member to the New York Police Department. In his current role as Staff Superintendent of Detective Operations, Joe oversees the Homicide and Missing Person Unit, Forensic Identification Services, the Hold Up Squad, Sex Crimes, the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force, the Drug Squad, the Fugitive/ROPE Squad, and the Fraud Squad as well as many Joint Force Operations. 

Speaking at:

Main Session Hall

Brazen and violent retail crime is surging across Canadian cities, reflecting a growing global challenge that demands innovative solutions. Join Staff Superintendent Joe Matthews, of the Toronto Police Service (TPS) as he shares an insider’s perspective on how Canada’s largest police force is confronting this crisis head-on. Discover the latest developments, including the rise of specialized Retail Crime Units across Canada, collaborative efforts with international law enforcement and the staggering economic and social costs on communities and businesses alike. This session offers a rare glimpse into the evolving strategies of the TPS and provides valuable insights into the critical collaboration needed with retailers to share intelligence, implement preventive measures, and dismantle these violent criminal networks. 

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