Shoplifting ... not worth the risk

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Scott Saldukas
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Shoplifting ... it's something everyone knows they shouldn't do, but some still take the risk.

Though shoplifting has been going on for some time, there has been a recent spike in the criminal offenses here since the opening of the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center.

"The spike in shoplifting at the KMCC is mainly in the base exchange," said Lt. Col. Gary Trautmann, 86th Mission Support Group deputy commander. "It's mainly high school and middle school kids."

According to Kenneth Randall, Loss Prevention Manager for the KMCC, the problem is due to peer pressure in the school with kids trying to see what they can get away with.

Just like shoplifting off base, the act is considered to be a crime and has serious repercussions.

"All privileges on base will be revoked," Colonel Trautmann said. "The person will not be allowed to purchase [items] from any establishments on base."

All minor dependents accused will not be allowed to enter any of the facilities on base without the direct supervision of a parent or sponsor. If it's a spouse, they will not be allowed to enter any of the establishments even when the sponsor is present.

"If the spouse of the military members gets caught their husband or wife will have to do all their shopping for them, and they won't be able to purchase anything on base if [the sponsor] deploys," said the deputy commander.

Also, individuals accompanying someone who is caught will also be charged and lose their privileges.

The same day the person is accused of the crime, they will be instructed to get a restricted ID card for the on-base facilities which will prevent them from purchasing anything.

Other measures taken to prevent the crime are more than 100 hi-tech cameras, electronic article surveillance system, school lectures and undercover employees imbedded with customers.

"We have employees that mingle with the customers who watch the stores activity along with our other security measures," Mr. Randall said.

Once caught, it's too late to realize the significance of the offence.

"We are looking for deterrence and to educate everyone that the cameras there are hi-tech and the people there are good at their jobs, so you won't get away with it," Colonel Trautmann said.

While shoplifting is not taken lightly, there is a general consensus on how not to get in trouble.

"Don't do it," the loss prevention manager said. "It's not worth getting caught and having a blemish on your record. You may have gotten away with it once or twice, but eventually you will get caught."