Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor

The Effects of Shoplifting

Some people may think shoplifting is a victimless crime but truth is it has a great impact on consumers, retailers and our community, as well as the shoplifter him/her self.

In the spur of the moment a shoplifter may not recognize the effect it has on self and/or others. The lowering of one’s self-worth, the way others will look at you. The embarrassment, that comes with being caught.

Stealing also has a great effect on consumers and retailers. With the loss of revenue from stolen items retailers are forced to increase prices to compensate for loss. Increased security measures also are costly which contribute to rising prices. Surveillance cameras, alarm detectors are all items that in the end are paid by taxpayers and consumers.

The effect it has on consumers is higher prices, items under lock and key making it an inconvenience to shoppers. Then there are the embarrassing moments like when a sensor is forgotten to be removed and the alarm sounds making everyone look at you with disgust assuming you were really stealing.

The community suffers the same as a retailer and consumer. But they also suffer in other ways as well.

Take my care for example… I at one point made the shameful mistake of shoplifting. At the time I did not realize it affected anyone but me… that was selfish thinking on my behalf. I have come to learn and understand the effects it has on our community. Little did I know it affected more than just me!

Lawyers, judges, assistants, police officers, security staff at store, and many others were affected by my decision to steal.

Community members had to take time out of their days to deal with my matter. My case was handed over to the justice program in St. Regis. Today I understand the consequences of my actions, and know that shoplifting is like throwing a rock in a pond. It has a ripple effect and many people will be affected by my actions.

Submitted by Akwesasne Community Justice Program