The toll of rising crime over the last two-and-a-half years continues to have a visible impact here and nationwide. Shoplifting and spree thefts are exacting such a cost that The Wall Street Journal editorial board last week referred to the resulting impact on prices as a "shoplifting tax." Not only do customers pick up the tab for the losses, but stores are changing policies and tactics, as prosecutors increasingly take a light touch toward such crimes. Exhibit A is the relatively-new Target store in Tenleytown.
Many consumer packaged goods (CPG) are now in locked display cases. This was not the "case" when the store opened. Shampoo, body wash, and Tide pods are among the commonly-purchased items that now require "team member assistance" to buy. Video games are now in theft-deterrent cases, as well. While the cases may deter thieves, much like security guards in grocery stores and Neighborhood Watch signs, the psychological impression is made that one is not in a safe location.
