Gone are the days when punishment for theft was by chopping off the hands of the offender to ensure that they would not do it again.
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These types of punishments from the medieval times have no place in our times now. Unfortunately though, theft continues till this day.
A commonly reported and un-reported offence are shoplifters.
Some people might better recognise the terms of the 'Five Finger discount', 'Freetail Therapy' or 'Coming down with the case of the Winonas'.
Common property which is targeted by shoplifters can range from the single chocolate bar, to a whole trolley load of groceries, and even meat products.
It is not only the grocery stores which get targeted. The organisations becoming victims of stealing can include chemists, Op shops, newsagencies, hardware stores and even security stores themselves.
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With so many places becoming targets, stores need to take certain steps to help prevent this from occurring.
A lot of stores have a policy of checking any bags which are brought into the store.
Some have gone to the lengths of installing CCTV cameras to assist in identifying offenders. One strategy is to keep up that good customer service with anyone who you might suspect of wanting to shoplift.
Go up and have a polite conversation with them. This lets them know that you have noticed them and may spook them enough to think twice before taking off with any goods.
Ensure that any theft from stores is reported to police. Investigations will be exhausted to try and identify any offenders.
If police are unable to identify offenders the reported theft is still crucial to analyse any trends of thefts in the area. This allows police to target certain areas with pro-active patrols.
And if you are curious, shoplifting can result in offenders being issued with a criminal
infringement notice fine on the spot worth $300 or a custodial sentence of up to five years.
Remember that you can Dob in a Druggie any time you like by contacting Nowra Police on 4421 9699 or ringing Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000. If it looks suss, report it. Do not drink and drive. As always, in case of emergency, call (000). Non Emergencies contact Police Assistance Line on 131444 or your local police. To provide anonymous information call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Domestic and Family Violence Info visit www.police.nsw.gov.au. Shoalhaven Domestic Violence Officers. 4421 9666 or 4421 9665. Email shoaldvlo@police.nsw.gov.au
Don't forget. Cops are tops.
Read more: Crime/Court
