By Jaeden Demelo

Calling for Apology

BCAFN Regional Chief calls for apology

Feb 19, 2025 | 4:28 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) Regional Chief Terry Teegee has formally asked for an apology regarding an incident at the Save-on Foods Pine Centre location on May 21, 2024.

Two First Nations youth suspected of theft were alleged victims of excessive use of force by loss prevention officers (LPO) in May. Around nine months later, Teegee issued a press release asking for an apology for the incident from Save-on Foods/Pattison Food Group.

“Beyond an apology, you need to really look at the security that they’re (Save-on Foods) hiring. This is a cautionary incident where there is not sufficient evidence to prosecute the the young offender, but I think this really opens up a liability to a number of these chains and stores.”

Along with noting that this isn’t the type of incident that happens just in Prince George, but the entire province, Teegee believes security companies adapting their training is the most critical part of preventing these situations in the future.

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“I think what we have to do is look at security companies that are really perpetrating a number of these incidences and also escalating them. I think there really needs to be more training, perhaps cultural training, and de-escalation training in many of these types of incidents.”

The Pattison Food Group responded to CKPG News with this statement:

“We are aware of the unfortunate incident that occurred on May 21, 2024 at our Save-On-Foods Pine Centre location where our loss prevention officers detained a group of suspected shoplifters. When our loss prevention officer (LPO) requested that the stolen product be returned, the LPO was subject to assault by members of this group outside of the store. The video circulating on social media shows two of the individuals involved in the alleged assault being detained in the store, and an off-duty RCMP officer arresting them. The alleged theft and assault were reported to the Prince George RCMP, and the information we have is that the RCMP have forwarded charges to crown for approval. Team member, customer and community safety is our top priority. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind in any of our stores and are making arrangements to meet with Regional Chief Terry Teegee.”

Save On Foods and Pattison Media are co-owned by Jim Pattison Industries.

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Email: jaeden.demelo@pattisonmedia.com