JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
Shoplifting incidents usually spike during the summer at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, but the continuation of a shoplifting prevention campaign that began two years ago has increased public awareness and made people think twice before acting, according to security forces members.
The campaign consists of placing life-sized cardboard cutouts of staged apprehensions at the Exchange's "hot spots," including its entryway, cosmetics, jewelry, electronics and bicycle sections. Additionally, cameras that monitor most of its area, incognito detectives on alert and random walk-throughs by security forces members further prevent or dissuade theft, Staff Sgt. Larry Holmes, 902nd Security Forces NCO in charge of police services, said.
In 2012, when the campaign began, 39 shoplifting cases were recorded - all of them at the Exchange. The total decreased to 35 in 2013 and, for this year, 10 cases have been logged at the Exchange, BXtra and commissary, according to 902nd SFS statistics.
Teenagers are typically the majority of shoplifters, comprising seven of the 10 caught this year, but there have been cases where young children have wandered off and took something unbeknownst to their parents, Holmes said.
"Parents must be aware of their children at all times and not let them out of their sight," he said. "It's unfortunate that children have been involved, but watching them carefully can prevent these kinds of mishaps."
There's a large time frame for shoplifting incidents during the day, but they generally take place around noon during the lunch rush or after the duty day is over from 4-5 p.m., Holmes said.
According to military legal code, military police members may apprehend suspects if probable cause is established, where they will then seize stolen property, review electronic recordings, if available, and gather any pertinent information from callers or witnesses.
Suspected shoplifters who steal $500 or more in property will be detained for processing.
Master Sgt. Kerry Thompson, 902nd SFS law enforcement superintendent, said the Exchange and other military stores can increase prices if shoplifters get away, so shoppers should be vigilant.
"If you want a quality shopping experience, be on the lookout whenever you can and always report suspicious activity," Holmes added.
Call 652-5700 or 652-5509 to report suspicious activity. For emergencies, call 911.