NCJ Number
118456
Journal
Security Management Volume: 33 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1989) Pages: 65-68
Date Published
1989
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After reviewing recent statistics on shoplifters, this article suggests security measures and procedures to counter shoplifting.
Abstract
Statistics from large department store chains' surveys tend to show a breakdown in shoplifter characteristics (male or female, young or old, rich or poor) according to the type of clientele a particular store attracts. Retail security professionals should not focus on what has traditionally been considered the typical shoplifter profile. Instead, they should concentrate on recognizing shoplifting techniques, enacting effective countermeasures, and training store and security personnel on appropriate apprehension procedures. Shoplifting techniques include price sticker switching, the reuse of a price receipt to attempt to prove the purchase of an item of the same price, the use of a "buddy" system, and the use of a fake carton or box to conceal stolen items. Security technology currently offers an abundance of electronic surveillance, detection, and sensing devices that can be tailored to any store's floor design or particular security requirements. Training all employees in security awareness should be a priority for any size store. This article outlines basic principles security and store personnel should use in apprehending suspected shoplifters.