News release
Kelowna RCMP proactive units target shoplifting and auto theft suspect
September 18, 2026
-
Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP
On this page
Content
Arrest for driving while prohibited in an allegedly stolen vehicle
On September 15, 2026, the Kelowna RCMP Target Team officers engaged in an investigation of a person who was suspected of being responsible for operating a stolen vehicle. After reviewing CCTV, the officers identified the suspect, located him in the area where the vehicle had been parked and arrested him. Lenny Lipscombe was charged with:
- Theft of a motor vehicle
- Possession of stolen property
- Driving while prohibited
Lipscombe appeared in Kelowna Provincial Court on September 15, 2026, and was remanded into custody until his next court appearance on September 23, 2026.
Shoplifters stopped in their tracks
The Kelowna RCMP Target Team partnered with local Loss Prevention Officers (LPOs) and retailers to target repeat shoplifters.
Earlier this month, officers working in plainclothes conducted a two-day enforcement project at retail locations that frequently generate theft-related police calls. During the operation, Kelowna RCMP Target Team members arrested nine individuals at two major retail stores.
Several of those arrested were found to be in possession of property stolen from other locations or were wanted on outstanding warrants. As a result of the operation, officers recovered a stolen bicycle valued at approximately $2,500, along with more than $1,500 worth of merchandise allegedly stolen from other local retailers.
“Retail theft has a significant impact on businesses, employees and the community as a whole,” says Corporal Steven Lang, Kelowna RCMP Media Relations Officer. “By working closely with local retail loss prevention officers, we are able to identify repeat offenders, recover stolen property and hold individuals accountable for their actions.”
To learn more about protecting your business from theft and property crime, visit the City of Kelowna's Business Safety Toolkit.