Barrie Police Service reported on September 25 that two suspects allegedly took funded gift cards from a Bayfield Street retailer after obtaining their cash back. Police said the pair might be connected to similar incidents at nearly three dozen Ontario stores. [S01]

The retailer contacted police on September 17 after finding a shortage linked to gift-card transactions. According to investigators, one suspect distracted the cashier while the other exchanged loaded cards for empty ones. The pair allegedly received a refund after saying they would return with smaller bills, then departed with the funded cards. [S01]

The account puts the exposure at checkout, where a refunded payment and retained card value can leave a merchant short. Police advised staff to retain possession of gift cards until transactions finish. [S01]

The release does not name the retailer, quantify losses or announce arrests. Its suggested connections across Ontario remain unconfirmed. The police reference is CL26005928. [S01]