NCJ Number
96667
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This slide presentation with recorded narration advises shoppers on how to prevent being mistaken for a shoplifter by store security guards, as well as on what shoppers should do if confronted by a security officer who suspects them of shoplifting.
Abstract
The introduction notes that modern shopping is done in large stores with many items easily accessible to shoppers, who make their own selections and then pay for them upon leaving the store. This style of shopping has made stores vulnerable to shoplifting, which has in turn increased prices for consumers. Another consequence of shoplifting is indicated to be the use of store security officers, who are expected to be suspicious of all shoppers. Under such an arrangement, shoppers may be mistakenly suspected of shoplifting; for example, when a security officer observes a shopper placing an item in the shopping cart but does not later see the shopper returning it to the shelf upon deciding not to purchase it, the officer may suspect shoplifting when he/she does not see the item in the cart when the shopper passes through the checkout station. Suggestions for preventing such mistaken suspicions include taking all items once in the shopping cart to the cashier's station and having the cashier take custody of all items the shopper does not wish to purchase; carrying one's purse rather than putting it in the shopping cart; leaving all shopping bags that one has upon entering the store at the store counter until departing the store; and securing a receipt for purchases, keeping it at least until one has left the premises. The presentation advises that upon being stopped by a security officer who suspects shoplifting, the shopper should be cooperative and explain the circumstances to the officer without being belligerent. Also, request that the conversation be conducted in private but with a witness present. Further, resist a physical search that seems abusive and violative of one's privacy rights.