Police warn public after used needles left on Saskatoon playgrounds

Police in Saskatoon are warning the public after getting reports of used needles “being intentionally discarded into school parks and playgrounds.”

According to police, the reports began in July and August at parks and playgrounds on Hampton Circle and Avenue W South.

“More recently, police have received additional reports and obtained video evidence of a person of interest believed to be responsible for intentionally discarding the needles,” police said in a statement.

The person of interest was described as a slim man in his late 30s or early 40s, with stubble on his face and a mole on his right cheek, under his eye. He’s been seen multiple times wearing dark-coloured clothes, while carrying a maroon backpack and one or more walking sticks, the police service noted.

“Police are encouraging parents, guardians, caregivers and educators to remain observant when accessing public parks and playgrounds,” the statement added.

Anyone with information that could help the police School Resource Unit’s investigation “or video evidence believed to be relevant” was asked to contact the police or Crime Stoppers.