Ontario Premier Doug Ford recounted an incident where he confronted a shoplifter at a Home Depot store during the summer. Speaking at the Empire Club in Toronto, Ford emphasized the need to strengthen bail procedures due to an increase in criminal boldness.
Ford described a moment when he had momentarily left his security detail to purchase plants at Home Depot for his cottage, anticipating a visit from Prime Minister Mark Carney. He witnessed a man leaving the store with two backpacks, followed by security guards who suspected him of theft but did not intervene per their instructions.
Taking matters into his own hands, Ford approached the man, demanding to inspect his bags. When the man refused, Ford reportedly issued a threat of physical confrontation, leading the man to comply. The shoplifter revealed a stolen saw blade, confirmed by the store manager.
During a fireside chat, Ford disclosed his warning to the shoplifter, emphasizing that such actions were necessary. He asserted that he had conveyed a message to the individual that any future encounters in the parking lot would result in severe consequences.