While reading through news articles today, I found a very interesting one here that states that the village of Barboursville, WV is seeing an ever increasing rate in shoplifting incidents. What makes this article so interesting to me are the reasons stated by those interviewed for the article.
Drugs – Police Chief Mike Coffey says that shoplifters are motivated by drugs. He stated in the interview that drug addicts get as much as 50% of the value of stolen items in drugs.
Economic Necessity – Barboursville Mall spokesman Joe Bell speculates that some shoplift out of necessity. This is an argument I disagree with, as I think there is hardly ever a need to steal, especially in a mall. I still think theft is driven by greed, not need. However, this is an interesting argument.
Thrill – Bell also speculated that some shoplift for the thrill. I will buy this one, as I have personally dealt with many shoplifters who keep coming back, even when they’re caught. To them, it’s a game, and the thrill of “getting away with it” is considered by some to be addictive.
Lack Of Punishment – Coffey states in the interview that first time offenders are written a citation by police. In court, they receive a misdemeanor conviction, a fine, and pay restitution to the retailer. But, here’s the kicker; if they don’t show up for court, a warrant is issued. The problem is, unless they are caught again, the warrant is probably never served.
Barboursville, WV is not alone. We have discussed numerous cities across the nation with similar issues. The common denominators are the same also. Shoplifters steal out of greed, for the thrill, to support a habit, and because there is no real punishment for getting caught.
So, the message we are sending sounds something like this: “If you steal from a retailer, and get caught, you are going to be written a citation. If you show up for court, we are going to fine you. If you don’t show up for court, we are going to sign a warrant for you. Then, if you get caught again, we’re going to serve that warrant. This time, you will have to post a bond before being released. Then, if you show up for court, we are still going to fine you. If you don’t show up for court, we will issue another warrant and wait to catch you again, at which time, we will attempt, once more, to fine you.”
By the way, I worked LP in West Virginia for a few years, and I dealt with this personally. It is extremely frustrating for the loss prevention agents who show up for court every week, just to be disappointed.
Am I the only one who sees absolutely no logic in this? Come on, somebody please leave a comment here and let’s discuss this issue.
photo credit: preciouskhyatt
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