Target Shoplifting Policy In 2022 (No Chase, Detaining + More)
Target has hundreds of people visiting it every day and is an easy target for shoplifters looking to get their stolen goods undetected.
Target enforces strict shoplifting policies to address shoplifting in its stores, starting with 2022. This involves surveillance systems with facial recognition, loss prevention security guards, and several deterrence strategies. Penalties can range from fines and write-ups to bans on stores and involvement by the police.
Target’s Shoplifting Policy.
Target enforces strict rules against shoplifting. Every store has surveillance and security systems that help to locate and apprehend shoplifters.
Target will bring in police to investigate shoplifting cases that have a high value and/or dangerous items.
Target does not chase shoplifters who try to flee the store. This is for everyone’s safety.
Does Target Have Monitored Security Cameras In-Store?
Target has extensive security systems in its stores including 24/7 monitored security cameras.
These cameras have facial recognition technology and image analytics software to assist the company in preventing and following up on shoplifting.
Therefore, customers are under constant video surveillance from the moment they enter the store, and in some cases, they are even under CCTV surveillance in the store’s parking lots.
Target: Can Target Stop Shoplifters
Target’s Asset Protection security officers generally do not make stops before the suspected shoplifter has exited the store.
You can request security to have a person stopped in specific situations by requesting a “variance exit” authorization.
In order for this to take place, one must first be able to see the person approaching, taking and hiding the merchandise. Next, one should be able to observe the person purposefully going to the end point for payment.
Can Target Detain Shoplifters?
Target security guards tasked with asset protection do have the general authority to detain someone, as long as they have reasonable evidence.
If Target’s security officers have witnessed a theft and observed the customer leaving the store without paying for the merchandise, they can ask the customer to step aside or into a back room for investigation.
Target Shoppers Bags for Shoplifted Goods Can Target Search?
Target will check the shopping bag of any customer who consents and is willing to do so if they suspect that the person may be shoplifting.
They cannot however search your clothes or other personal belongings, such as your purse.
Target security officers tend to approach minor thefts more intimidatingly, trying to convince the shoplifter to leave the merchandise within the store and walk out without it.
Does Target Have A No Chase Policy For Shoplifters?
Target shoplifters cannot be chased by security officers in the store if they are trying to escape.
Target maintains an “no chase” policy. Target’s security staff must observe and follow any shoplifter who makes his getaway.
Target security can also relay this information to police officers, who will then be responsible for the capture of the shoplifter.
Target offers a no-chase policy for shoplifters.
Target doesn’t pursue shoplifters if they aren’t in the store.
Company safety is paramount. Customers and employees can rest assured that the police will handle any dangerous situation.
If they are not sure that the shoplifter was actually shoplifting then the customers could sue the company and incur unnecessary costs.
Customer requests for purchase receipts or to inspect the inside of a shopping bag are completely voluntary. The customer must agree to present proof of purchase.
Does Target Press Charges For Shoplifting?
Target cannot press charges against a shoplifter for stealing goods from its stores.
While it may file a Police Report or ask a Prosecutor’s Office to intervene, the company has no authority to actually charge any individual.
Target will issue a Civil Demand Letter requesting money in compensation for theft. This can vary depending upon the state law.
Target makes cases against shoplifters
Target employees believe that it can create cases against repeat shoplifters.
In order to mitigate theft across their retail stores, Target has a strategic method to deal with shoplifters.
It is common for Target to not immediately apprehend shoplifters who repeatedly steal merchandise from the store, waiting instead for the total value of the stolen goods to reach a certain amount that is eligible for a felony-level charge.
Target’s policy is not explicit about this but Target employees do attest to such practices in some areas.
Target tracks shoplifters
To help with loss prevention, some Target stores will keep a binder with surveillance camera images of shoplifters that have been identified but not caught.
Target maintains a record of stolen items and dates, should a legal case require it.
What happens if you are caught at Target shoplifting?
It all depends on where you shop and what the law is in your state, but it will generally happen one of the following:
The merchandise will be photographed and written up, if it’s returned by the customer.
Stores will not be allowed to restock items if they are damaged or soiled.
How Are Shoplifters Prosecuted Once They Are Caught At Target?
Shoplifters who shoplift more than $500 in merchandise will be charged with felony shoplifting.
They will most likely face charges with a misdemeanor of a felony if they have stolen less $500. Shoplifters may also be accused under the petty theft charge or another type larceny.
Target: Shoplifting at Target is a serious offense
Target considers loss prevention a top priority. Target has a top-rated laboratory in Las Vegas, and he also has a Minneapolis location.
This company employs these services in order to combat organized crime.
Target employs a group of Loss Prevention officers who are highly trained and will work hard to discourage shoplifting.
Additionally, law enforcement and punishment will vary depending on theft level. Target tends to be less lenient for first-time teenager offenders than with members of disenfranchised neighborhoods.
Target Does Target Stop Shoplifting at Its Stores
Target operates a vigorous operation to discourage shoplifters.
Video surveillance, undercover store security officers, and uniformed personnel are posted at some exits, which works to discourage any shoplifters.
Target workers are taught to recognize potential shoplifting activities and use non-combative tactics like approaching customers and asking them if they can help you find items.
To learn more, you can see our other posts on if Target monitors their cameras, the Best Buy shoplifting policy, and the Kroger shoplifting policy.
Target employs a comprehensive shoplifting policy in order to stop theft. This includes video surveillance, security systems and officers.
While the policy is not to chase shoplifters, they may be taken into custody if there are any signs of theft and then banned from returning to the store. In more serious cases, the police will become involved in felony shoplifting charges.
What Happens If You Get Caught Shoplifting At Target?
Target is in good standing with local police departments, who will respond immediately to any shoplifting call. When the police process the case it’s sent to a criminal court. There may be jail time, fines or community service.
Are Shoplifters physically detained by store employees?
The In-Store detention of shoplifters Although the laws are different, generally store owners and employees can hold a suspect if they believe that the person is involved in shoplifting. The law states that any shoplifter suspected must be detained in a reasonable length of time and with the right manner. Dec 29, 2021
Does Target Wait For You To Steal A Certain Amount?
Arellano reports that the thieves will not stop stealing, even though they are documenting the item’s worth. Dec 9, 2020
.Target Shoplifting Policy In 2022 (No Chase, Detaining + More)
