After a truck crashed into Players Choice Sports in Kelowna, B.C., leaving the store ransacked and the business in shambles, the emotional toll on owner Katie Jenion and her family was significant. Despite this setback, the owners decided to open a second location, Players Choice Toys, Cards & Games, just a block away. However, they still live in fear of potential theft issues following the previous incident, with Jenion stating that they constantly monitor security cameras and have even cancelled weekend plans out of fear of being away from the store. The fear of theft is always in the back of their minds, making the whole situation quite scary for them.
Although theft is still a concern for many business owners in Kelowna, the city’s RCMP has reported a 55 percent decrease in business break-ins between 2022 and 2024. Despite the drop, many are surprised by this decrease, as theft has always been a common worry for business owners. The Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA) also acknowledged ongoing theft issues in the area, and Executive Director Mark Burley believes that as long as there are significant numbers of people on the streets during overnight hours, the problem will persist. In response to this, businesses like Wild Kingdom have implemented stricter security measures to combat theft, with owner Kim Williams installing 16 cameras in and around the store to monitor activity and discourage potential thieves.
Despite the ongoing theft concerns in downtown Kelowna, some businesses have successfully managed to reduce theft and break-ins through enhanced security measures. For instance, Wild Kingdom has seen a significant decrease in inside theft by implementing strict rules for customers to put their bags down and actively monitoring their actions through surveillance cameras. Despite facing numerous challenges, such as theft, break-ins, and holdups, Kim Williams remains resilient and determined to continue running the business from the same location. This determination and resilience reflect a common theme among small business owners in the area who refuse to let criminal activities deter them from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.
The decrease in business break-ins reported by the Kelowna RCMP has provided some relief to business owners who have long been concerned about theft issues in the area. While the drop in break-ins may be surprising to some, it highlights the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts to address criminal activities in the community. However, the Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA) continues to emphasize the importance of vigilance and security measures to prevent theft and ensure the safety of businesses and their owners. By working together with local law enforcement and adopting enhanced security practices, businesses can protect themselves from potential threats and maintain a safe and secure environment for their customers and employees.
The challenges faced by small business owners like Katie Jenion and Kim Williams serve as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to overcome setbacks and continue operating in a challenging environment. Despite the fear and uncertainty surrounding theft issues, these owners have demonstrated their commitment to their businesses by implementing improved security measures and staying vigilant against potential threats. By sharing their experiences and strategies for addressing theft concerns, they contribute to a collective effort to safeguard businesses in downtown Kelowna and create a stronger sense of security and community for all. As Kelowna continues to address ongoing theft issues, it is essential for businesses, law enforcement, and community organizations to collaborate and support each other in creating a safe and prosperous environment for everyone.
