Alcatraz East Crime Museum is opening a new temporary display targeting retail theft titled Sticky Fingers, Heavy Consequences: The True Cost of Retail Crime. The exhibit will feature some of the most frequently stolen items, along with information about retail theft that will help consumers and businesses alike.
The temporary display will share some of the most commonly stolen retail items, along with information on the counterfeit industry and prevention tips to remember when shopping this holiday season. The display will be helpful to consumers and businesses who want to learn more about the issue, its consequences and penalties, and what can be done to curb retail theft.
Theft from stores and other businesses has always been an issue, but in recent years it’s become more sophisticated and widespread. The National Retail Federation reports an increase across a variety of methods, including cargo theft and shoplifting, both in person and online. They report that retail crime is becoming increasingly complex, and businesses are scrambling to keep up with preventive measures.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a special report on Flash Rob groups committing retail theft and how it is a growing trend. A Flash Rob is when an organized group steals from a single retail store. The FBI reported that over four years, flash-mob retail robbery resulted in more than $8 million in goods stolen and more than $51,000 in property damage.
