Apprehending The Suspect




If you have determined that you saw the suspected shoplifter remove merchandise form a rack or shelf, conceal that merchandise, go past the check-out counter, and your observation of all these was constant, you are ready to apprehend them. Following are some of the details you should be aware of:



Question: When should I apprehend the shoplifter?

Answer: You can apprehend the shoplifter as he/she reaches the door, or apprehend him/her just as they begin to exit the door.

Question: What should I say to this person?

Answer: Don't scream or use harsh accusatory language. For example, do not run to the door and say, "Hey, I caught you stealing!" Remember, at this point, you are still investigating. Say something like: "Sir, ma'am, Miss or Mr. (whichever the case may be)< I need you to step to the back with me." Or perhaps you should say something like: "Pardon me, I need to speak to you in private."

Question: Should I touch the suspect?

Remember, do not touch the suspect! You don't want a scene in front of the store. You should simply lead the way emmediately, after you tell the suspect, "I need to speak to you in private."

Question: What if the suspect says no, and breaks and run?

Don't get excited and just get overwrought with this thing? You should step outside, look again at the suspect. Note what kind of pants they are wearing--What kind of shirt--What kind of shoes--What kind of dress--their facial features. Maybe they jumped in a car. What kind of car was it? If they drove past you, what was the license plate number? Your job is to get enough evidence to prosecute them.

Once you've got the desciption and all other details, write them down! Be sure to write them down in long hand, being as descriptive as possible. Then, once the police arrive, give that information to them.

Question:What if the suspect goes along with you with no trouble?

First, be sure you take someone else in with you and the suspect. Should the police arrive, you and the policeman are enough to take the suspect to the back room.

It is very important that someone go in with you and the suspect. If they fight the case in court, they're almost always going to accuse you of everything from assault to "planting something" on them. Having a witness will enable you to verify that you didn't behave in any uncommon or out-of-the way manner.

The next step would be to investigatethe facts.



Send comments to vancleve@prairie.nodak.edu
The Retailer Home Page