Man Arrested After Shoplifting from Home Depot Twice
Steal from a store once: shame on you. Steal from the same store again the next day: foolish move.
A Florida man was arrested on February 12 after shoplifting from a Home Depot store in Coral Springs on two consecutive days. On February 11, the 48-year-old man from Hialeah stole more than $1,200 worth of roofing materials and tools from the store, located at 750 N University Drive. When he returned the next day to steal more merchandise, he was caught in the act and arrested.
The store’s loss prevention personnel recognized the man when he returned on February 12. He allegedly filled a shopping cart with saw blades, buckets of roofing sealant, and other high-value items. He then attempted to leave the store without paying.
When a loss prevention officer confronted the man, he ran through the parking lot. Police officers arrived and pursued him briefly before arresting him. That same day, investigators recovered $2,329 worth of stolen merchandise. Combined with the previous day’s theft, the man had stolen $3,550 worth of goods in a 48-hour period.
The man had an accomplice with him during the shoplifting, but he drove off before police got to him. It is unknown if he was later caught.
The man was charged with retail theft exceeding $750 within a 120-day period as well as obstruction of an officer without violence. He was taken to Broward County Jail but later released on bail.
Why Do People Shoplift?
Shoplifting is a common crime. People of all ages steal merchandise from stores for a variety of reasons such as:
- Financial struggles. Some people steal essential items like food or hygiene products because they are poor and cannot afford to pay for them.
- Impulse and thrill. Others shoplift for the adrenaline rush, especially younger individuals or those with kleptomania.
- Peer pressure. Some younger people, especially high schoolers, will steal to fit in with a group or prove themselves.
- Addiction and mental health issues. Drug addiction, compulsive disorders, or emotional distress can lead to shoplifting.
- When security is weak, people may steal simply because they think they can get away with it.
Shoplifters need to be mindful, though. Businesses use a mix of strategies to prevent shoplifting, such as the following:
- Surveillance cameras. High-quality security cameras deter thieves and help identify suspects.
- Security tags and alarms. Many stores use electronic article tags that trigger alarms if not removed at checkout.
- Employee training. Staff are trained to spot suspicious behavior and provide excellent customer service, which can deter shoplifters.
- Security personnel. Having visible security guards can discourage potential thieves.
- Restricting high-value items. Some stores keep valuable items in locked cases or require assistance to access them.
Contact Us Today
Shoplifting is not considered a minor crime. If you get caught, it can affect your life in many ways.
Arrested for shoplifting? Get the help you need from a Fort Myers petit theft attorney from Hollander & Hanuka. We provide aggressive defense strategies aimed at protecting your future. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling (239) 332-3300 (Fort Myers) or (239) 530-1800 (Naples).
Source:
tapinto.net/towns/coral-springs/sections/law-and-justice/articles/coral-springs-man-arrested-after-returning-to-home-depot-for-second-day-of-shoplifting
