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, as of 2022 has implemented a stringent shoplifting policy. 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 – What Does It Mean?
Target enforces a shoplifter-proof policy. Target stores have surveillance cameras and security officers that work to catch shoplifters.
Target will take action if shoplifters are stealing dangerous or high-value goods, and involve police.
Target does not chase shoplifters who try to flee the store. This is for everyone’s safety.
Target stores have surveillance security cameras?
Target boasts extensive security systems including monitored cameras and surveillance 24 hours a day.
This camera has facial recognition technology as well as image analytics software that can assist in the prevention and detection of shoplifting.
Customers are therefore constantly under surveillance at all times, starting as soon as they walk into the shop. In some instances, CCTV cameras are also installed in their parking lot.
Target can stop shoplifters
Target Asset Protection Security officers do not usually make an arrest until the suspected shoplifter leaves the store.
They can however be granted a “variance-to-exit” authorization from the Asset Protection Team Leader, which allows security to prevent a person being stopped in certain circumstances.
This is usually done by observing the individual approaching and taking the item, then noticing the person passing the point at which payment will be made.
Can Target Detain Shoplifters?
The general authority for asset protection guards are target security officers. They can detain anyone provided they have sufficient evidence.
Target’s security guards can ask the customer for assistance if they observe a theft or witness the customer leave without paying.
Target Shoppers’ Bags Search for Shoplifted Goods
Target may check your shopping bag, provided that it is not mandatory and the customer consents.
They cannot however search your clothes or other personal belongings, such as your purse.
Target security officers are more likely to tackle minor thefts intimidatingly and try to convince shoplifters not to take the merchandise from the store.
Target has a Shoplifter Policy with No Chase
Target shoplifters cannot be chased by security officers in the store if they are trying to escape.
The company maintains a strict “no chase” policy, so if a shoplifter makes a run for it, Target’s security officers must follow from a safe distance while maintaining observation.
Target security can also relay this information to police officers, who will then be responsible for the capture of the shoplifter.
Target has a Shoplifter Policy that is No Chase.
Target is not able to pursue shoplifters in any other location than the one it has. This is for safety reasons.
It is important that employees and customers are protected. If situations become dangerous, the police can help.
Other than shoplifting allegations, customers may file lawsuits against companies to seek compensation for their mistake.
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.
Target Press Does Shoplifting Charge?
Target can’t press charges against someone who shoplifts 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.
Depending on the local state law, Target can issue a civil demand letter requesting monetary compensation following a theft incident, which you can either pay or ignore and risk a small claims case raised against you.
Does Target Build Cases Against Shoplifters?
According to some Target employees, the company can build cases against repeat shoplifters.
Target employs a specific strategy to tackle shoplifters to prevent theft in their retail locations.
Target will often wait to see if shoplifters are caught and charged with a felony level offense.
Target does not specifically state that this is the practice, but employees have attested to it in certain locations.
Target keeps track of shoplifters
Target stores keep a binder containing surveillance cameras images from shoplifters who have been caught but are still being identified. This helps with loss prevention.
Additionally, Target also keeps track of the items stolen and the date the theft occurred on if a future legal case requires this evidence.
What Happens If You Get Caught Shoplifting At Target?
It all depends upon the store, the state and how you were caught shoplifting at Target.
When merchandise is returned, photos of it are taken.
The store may ask for full compensation if an item is not able to be restocked because it has been damaged or stained.
How Are Shoplifters Prosecuted Once They Are Caught At Target?
If the police become involved for prosecution, the shoplifter will face charges of felony shoplifting if the merchandise value exceeds a minimum amount that is generally between $500 and $1000 in most states.
If the shoplifter took less than $500 they are likely to be charged with either a misdemeanor, or felony. A shoplifting offense may also be filed under petty theft, or another form of larceny.
How Serious Is It To Shoplift At Target?
Target takes loss prevention very seriously, running one of the top-rated forensic laboratories in America with locations in Las Vegas and Minneapolis.
They are employed by the company for solving organized crimes through image and video analysis, fingerprint identification and computer forensics.
Target’s Loss Prevention team consists of highly-skilled enforcers that will stop shoplifting and discourage customers.
Also, depending on the degree of theft committed by the victim and their punishments, Law Enforcement involvement and penalties will differ. The Target has a tendency to be more gentle with teenage offenders who are first time and those from disenfranchised areas.
Target Does Target Stop Shoplifting at Its Stores
Target is very proactive in deterring shoplifters.
Watchdogs and store security officers are stationed at certain exits to stop shoplifters.
Target employees are also taught how to detect potential shoplifting activity in the store and stop it using non-combative strategies like approaching customers asking for help or asking questions.
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.
Although the police employ a no chase policy for shoplifters, they can still be detained by them if they are seen stealing. They will also be banned from future entrance to the store. The police can also be involved in shoplifting cases.
Is Target a Target Shoplifter?
Target has relationships with the local police department who respond right away when called about someone suspected of shoplifting. After the police have processed the case, the matter is sent to the criminal court. The penalties could include prison, fines, community service, or probation.
How can a physical store worker detain shopper?
In-Store Detention of Shoplifters Though these laws vary, store owners and their employees generally are allowed to detain an individual when they have probable cause to suspect shoplifting. Dec 29, 2021
Does Target Wait For You To Steal A Certain Amount?
“They will continue letting you steal, all the while they’re documenting the value amount of every single item that you are stealing,” said Arellano in the video. Dec 9, 2020
.Target Shoplifting Policy In 2022 (No Chase, Detaining + More)
