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Winnipeg auto-theft strategy in running for policing award

WINNIPEG - Winnipeg’s war against young auto thieves has been recognized by an international police agency.

The Winnipeg Auto Theft Suppression Strategy (WATSS) was a finalist for the 2009 Centre for Problem-Oriented Policing Goldstein Award, officials said Wednesday at a ceremony at the legislative building.

The award is named for Prof. Herman Goldstein of the University of Wisconsin Law School. He developed a theory of problem-oriented policing to reduce a recurring specific crime.

Since 2005, WATSS has reduced auto theft in Winnipeg by more than 70 per cent, resulting in 9,000 fewer vehicle thefts and attempted thefts in 2009 than took place in 2004. The program close tabs on nearly 150 high-risk teens through various agencies, including police, probation officials and the courts.

Police said the result has been safer streets and Manitoba Public Insurance said that means a savings of about $25 million in stolen auto claims.

 

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