The Shoplifter

My new job is now a month old. I've found that it's something I genuinely enjoy. However, today was an unusual and interesting day. Today we had our first verified shoplifter. Unfortunately, there's not much we can do about it though, except record and recall, so if he tries to return again, he'll be watched very carefully.

The young man had been purchasing and returning several items over the last few days. So his face was easily recognizable and we have his information recorded from the numerous returns. He'd already been put on the 'non returnable' list because of his tendency to buy expensive products and then return them a day later. Today he came in and said he was just wanting to pass some time in the store. he seemed anxious, but I attributed that to his having to wait for someone else. He then proceeded to a section and stood there for some time, I saw him opening a few packages to read the insert. He refused assistance from both myself and my manager. I was a little suspicious about him opening boxes, but as I saw him returning things to their boxes, I didn't worry overly much, other than to mention it to the manager. The young man had set down his water and refused my assistance a second time. Then he suddenly decided to leave the store and left his water bottle behind. Because I was suspicious of his whole demeanor, I suggested my manager check the area I had seen the man standing by and opening boxes. Sure enough, he found an empty carton tucked up behind a few of the other items on that shelf.

To say my manager was upset with the person would be a mild comparison. It would be closer to describing him as livid. I have to agree though, just how stupid did that young man take us to be?! Does he think he wouldn't be caught?!?! Apparently he does though. The interesting thing is that because of the excessive number of returns, we have his name and contact information. If he's bold enough to return to the store, the plan is to ask him specifically about the item that turned up missing. Because while we cannot outright accuse him, in the event he became voilent, we can watch him like a hawk and let him know that we know he stole the item. The idea being not only to embarrass him and essentially call him out on it, but to let him know that we are aware that he stole the item and won't put up with it from him. Next time he comes in, he will be stuck to closer than if he were our best friend.