Hamilton Police Service is launching a new shoplifter identification initiative, with the goal of reducing retail thefts and its impact on businesses and the community. #WhoDidItWednesday asks the public to help identify suspects in relation to retail thefts in the Hamilton area through social media channels.

Every Wednesday, the Hamilton Police Service will share information on persons of interest in hopes the public can assist in identifying the individuals responsible for local retail theft. Information will be shared through Twitter @HamiltonPolice, @HPS_Mountain, and www.facebook.com/HamiltonPolice.

The Retail Council of Canada states retail theft costs businesses $4 billion per year, resulting in higher prices handed down to consumers. Locally, Hamilton businesses report approximately 1,850 retail theft-related occurrences every year. Although numbers may be much higher since many businesses choose not to report thefts to police.

#WhoDidItWednesday is modelled on a similar initiative by Halton Regional Police Service. Since the project launched, Halton Regional Police have been able to clear 80 per cent of their shoplifting cases, up from 60 per cent.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to call 905-540-5142.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com.