Many people don’t see shoplifting as being much of a crime these days. Indeed, with the presence of hyperinflation and low wages, who can afford anything?
Before we tell you all you need to know about what you should NOT do when shoplifting, understand this isn’t condoning theft. In fact, we’ll begin by telling you why it’s not a good idea in the first place. But, if you’re going to steal anyway, there are some definite common sense things you should avoid doing.
What NOT to Do When Shoplifting
If the discussion above doesn’t deter you from your desire to shoplift, then at least follow the five guidelines below. We do not condone theft in any capacity and hope the person reading this will think twice before doing it.
1. Don’t Get Violent with or Threaten Customers & Employees
If you get caught shoplifting and employees or customers approach you, do not interact or get violent with them.
When cameras and other security systems are in use, it’s a good idea to give up where you stand. Getting violent or using any amount of force will only make your charges worse.
This means what could end as a simple 2nd degree misdemeanor might become a felony if you use a crowbar to knockout anyone who gets in your way of leaving the store. Ergo, the felony charge will have heftier penalties like prison time and hugely expensive fines.
2. Avoid Drawing Attention to Yourself
Employees and security guards often receive training on how to spot potential shoplifters the minute they enter the store.
They notice specific behaviors, albeit different between individuals. The main one is eye contact. Some shoplifters make too much eye contact with employees and others avoid it completely.
Avoiding contact or meaningful interactions throughout your time in the store is a big red flag too. There are other indicators as well, like constantly looking over your shoulder while combing through merchandise or keeping your head down throughout your time in the store.
3. A Note about Stealing Undergarments
If you’re attempting to steal things like bras and underwear, please don’t leave your used and dirty ones behind. Not only does this present a public health risk but it’s also disgusting. Show a little respect for the employees and customers by removing personal undergarments along with whatever you steal.
4. Don’t Return to the Same Location
Whether you get caught shoplifting or not, don’t go back to the same store. Believe it or not, people aren’t as stupid as you may assume.
It doesn’t take long for employees to catch on to who the frequent thieves are. If you habitually return to the same store, it’s just a matter of time before you get caught.
5. Don’t Brag on Social Media
In the event you’re one of those who’s proud of themselves for shoplifting, don’t gloat about it on your social media page.
This is the behavior of dumb thieves and it’s a sure bet that you will get caught, even though you aren’t in the store. You’ve just given the police all the evidence they need to make an arrest.
Stealing Is a Bad Idea
Before we get into the meat about what you shouldn’t do when shoplifting, consider NOT shoplifting at all. The size, value, or number of stolen goods is irrespective of justifying reasons for shoplifting.
First of all, it’s immoral. It doesn’t matter what religion or spiritual practice, it’s the principle of the thing.
It’s one of those crimes that fall into the category of “objective morality.” In other words, we can all agree that stealing is wrong.
It doesn’t matter if you’re referring to the 10 commandments, cycles of karma, or the “Golden Rule.” Theft is wrong.
Justifications & Rationalizations
Put the shoe on the other foot and consider how you would feel if someone steals from you. At this point, some may further justify shoplifting by saying how the corporation can afford to cover their losses or how corrupt the retailer is.
Therefore, they can manage the theft. Both modes of thinking are incorrect approaches, as we will soon discuss.
Yet there are other reasons you might rationalize stealing. The most common one is poverty. Many shoplifters simply do not have enough money to pay for the goods they need.
Indeed, inflation right now is sky high and getting daily necessities is a struggle in and of itself. But, you could be one of those who do it for the sheer thrill.
The Social Consequences of Shoplifting
Since most people are not thinking of the social ramifications of their theft, it’s important to understand what those are. First, the cost of your theft hardly passes onto the company from where you’re stealing.
Every instance of shoplifting affects the jobs of the people employed by those companies and the customers who shop there.
They are the ones who end up experiencing restrictions, price hikes, and increased security measures. Companies do this to cover their losses and pay for theft insurance.
Plus, if you are violent in any way, it lowers the general safety of being able to shop and work at the store. Once again, customers and employees must suffer the brunt of your decision to steal.
Getting Caught
Then there’s the problem of getting caught. In place like California and NYC, the risk of prosecution tends to be low. But, most other places in the United States have security and anti-theft systems in place. They will work with police and criminal charges usually follow.
If you’re stealing because your finances aren’t where they should be, getting caught will not help your situation.
This is especially true if you run off with more than $300 to $500, where you could receive a felony charge of Grand Theft. This will often include a fine you already can’t afford to pay.
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Future Prospects
Compounding this with jail time and probation will only further spiral you into a hole of despair. So, then, you’ll still be too broke to pay for anything and you’ll be under the thumb of the legal system for at least a year.
If you have money and you’re still shoplifting – shame on you! There are accounts of wealthy housewives stealing out of boredom and major movie stars shoplifting for the thrill of it – shame on you! For all the reasons above, shame on you!
You also want to consider future prospects for your life down the road. If you end up with charges of theft on your record, it will be difficult to find a job or housing.
No one will trust you and everyone who runs your background check will see it there for many years. Before reading further, please sit and evaluate whether shoplifting will be worth it for you in the end.
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Conclusion
Stealing isn’t a good idea, to begin with, so if you’re planning on shoplifting, please consider NOT doing it. You’re actually contributing to the current hyperinflation climate we live in.
Plus, you’re making it more difficult for the public to shop and feel safe. This includes employees and customers.
But, if our pleas cannot dissuade you, then please at least employ the five top things you should not do while shoplifting.
Don’t get violent with people, don’t draw attention to yourself, don’t leave your used undergarments behind, don’t return to the same store, and don’t brag about your theft on social media.
Reference Sources
https://www.businessinsider.com/what-employees-notice-when-you-walk-in-store-2019-5