NCJ Number
101387
Date Published
1985
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This guide instructs Washington State retail managers in shoplifting prevention techniques and State criminal and civil laws pertaining to the sanctioning of shoplifters.
Abstract
Steps for removing shoplifting opportunities include employee contact with customers, employee training in shoplifting prevention, an adequate sales staff, a store layout that permits employee observation of customers, and signs discouraging shoplifting and announcing that shoplifters will be prosecuted. Other means of reducing shoplifting losses are using fitting room controls, taping receipts to the outside of bags, installing mirrors, using disintegrating price tags that prevent price switching, and alternating the direction of hanger hooks to prevent 'grab-and-run' losses from racks near entrance/exit doors. Special devices and security personnel also may be required: video cameras, garment cables, locking holders for some merchandise, locked display cases, and alarms. Washington State law makes the shoplifting of merchandise under $250 a misdemeanor carrying a maximum penalty of $1,000 and/or a jail term of up to 1 year. Under civil law, the merchant may recover actual and punitive damages. Procedures for detaining a suspected shoplifter are described. Appended shoplifting laws and forms.