So, what are the risks of shoplifting? Now that you know what youre up against, lets get into how to shoplift from Hot Topic. There has been a growing number of cases whereby retailers have been attacked by a shoplifting suspect. The second thing to keep in mind is that Hot Topic employees are trained to look for shoplifters. It is also important to know the security measures of the store you are shoplifting from, as well as the penalties for shoplifting in your state. Selling Habits of Effective Reps 1. You can also link up your CCTV with others in the network and keep the police in the loop, making it easier to identify and catch any perpetrators. Otherwise, know where all the exits are so you can make a quick getaway. If you shoplift items less than $100, a fine of $250 for a first offense and $500 for a second may be levied. If you are caught on camera, you could be prosecuted even if you are not caught in the act. SHOPLIFTING Although the average shoplifting loss is small, the cumulative amount is quite high, from $500 million to $1 billion per year. Second, if you are going to steal something, make sure it is something small that can easily be concealed. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Generally, the term "shoplifting" describes an act of theft committed by someone who steals merchandise from a place of business. Additionally, a conviction will go on your criminal record and can make it difficult to find employment or housing in the future. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Third, if there is any physical evidence that contradicts the accusation of theft, that can be used as well. That said, there are a few things you can do to try to beat the charges. Move around confidently and try not to look suspicious. sentence for "shoplifter". This is a tactic used to distract employees and divert their attention elsewhere. Studying English literature in college, she imagined writing a successful novel and leading the idealized life of an author. Look for a store that is not too crowded and has plenty of exits. This could include awkward lumps under jackets, where the offender may be holding their stolen items. Despite eking a living from shoplifting, the family is happy until an unforeseen incident unveils a secret that puts their bond . 10. There are a few circumstances in which absconding may be considered a legitimate course of action. As a former retail loss prevention professional, I am happy to help anyone I can. There are a few things you can do to try to beat the charges. Walmart takes shoplifting very seriously and has a zero tolerance policy for theft. Dont get caught with the merchandise. Use distraction techniques. Shoplifters often carry large purses or backpacks where they can easily conceal the items they steal. For first-time offenders, a conviction usually results in probation and a fine. Those who are being deceptive also may have a difficult time making eye contact with people when theyre questioned. No matter what, it is important to remember that shoplifting is a crime. If an individual is facing charges and believes that he will not receive a fair trial, he may choose to flee the jurisdiction rather than stand trial. Wear baggy clothes that can easily hide items, and avoid wearing anything that would identify you as a shoplifter (like a hoodie with I stealing written on it). The distractor (s) job is to distract sales associated by asking them time-consuming questions: finding a specific item, whether or not they have a product in stock, etc. Each place has their own set line they dont want their security guard to cross. If you look suspicious, store employees will be more likely to watch you closely. I am a current LP security guard at a Bass Pro Shops. Shoplifting can be done in a number of ways, but the most common method is known as boosting. This is when a person conceals merchandise in a bag or under their clothing and leaves the store without paying for the items. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Today the shoplifting bag can be of any size and design. Hot Retail Store Design Trends For Your Business, 3 Ways to Attract Women to Your Retail Store. Psychological disorders lead some people to shoplift. Shoplifting. Absconding can also occur when an individual is facing criminal charges. There are a number of reasons why people shoplift, but the most common one is simply because they can. Some may try softer tactics like switching price tags so they end up getting a very expensive item at a much lower price. -- WHO: Identify the complaining party, the victim, the suspect, the witnesses, and any involved law enforcement personnel.. The economic impact of shoplifting is debatable, with some industries claiming that shoplifting results in a large loss of profit, while others simply find it a nuisance. If an employee feels that his life is in danger, he may feel that he has no choice but to leave his job without permission. If youre facing a misdemeanor charge, the best way to beat it is to hire a good lawyer who can negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor. There are many different ways to defend against a charge of retail theft. 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