pens to that person afterwards." Most

which requires ponding or - special
licensing may not be obtainable. A’

ty.

measure.in many cases. et
The courts can summarily impose a.
maximum sentence of up to six months ._
imprisonment or a fine of up to $2,000,.. ;
or both, With aggravating circum- -
stances and an indictment, the court..
may order an imprisonment of up to .
two. years. According to .one Crown -
Counsel spokesman, "Probably the
most serious consequences are not
what the court imposes, but what hap-

job applications ask if the applicant
has ever been arrested. Any position

criminal record can prevent admission
to colleges, professional schools and

foreign countries. As the. spokesman
says, ‘It follows you around for the rest

of your life." | .

_ Ultimately, we all pay for the costs
incurred by shoplifters. Merchants pass
the dollar loss on to their customers, by
raising the cost of goods. Indirectly, the
shoplifter is stealing from his or her
neighbours, teachers and friends. The
cost of store security also adds to the .
price. Court costs and police enforce-
ment are paid for by tax dollars, pad-
ding the bill even more.

How can shoplifting be prevented?

According to the professionals involved, through public education on all sides of the

retail spectrum. While the scourge of shoplifting is often seen as a hidden "dirty secret”
of the trade, an open awareness of the problem can reduce everyone's losses. As one

well-aware Terrace merchant offers, "One of the best deterrents is simply good

service.” Preventative workshops for merchants and their employees are available
through the Chamber of Commerce.

O n the consumer’s side of retail, public attitudes must change. Shoplifting is

theft — a serious crime. "A lot of it starts at home,” says Chris. "Parents should be

aware that there are professional shoplifters in Terrace. They recruit young people to

shoplift for them. Do you know what your kids are doing when they go to the store?”
Anti-shoplifting seminars organized through the Crime Prevention Unit of the RCMP

are available for local schools and community groups.

And shoplifters might consider Probation Officer Kerrie Reay's warning: “When you —
grab that item to hide in your pocket or shopping cart, remember, you will face the

consequences."

Chris says it best as he. strolls through the aisles full of shoppers. "To put.

everything on the line for a pair of earrings —— is it worth it?"

— Stephanie Wiebe.”

story.

Terrace Review — March 20, 1992

4+Note: For obvious reasons we are not using the store detective’s real name in this.

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