Lancaster to name retailers who won't prosecute shoplifters

In an attempt to increase the prosecution of shoplifters, the city of Lancaster has announced plans to publicize the names of retailers that refuse to take action against such thieves.

Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris said Tuesday in a published statement that the step was necessary because some retailers believe the total cost of apprehending and prosecuting people who steal from their establishments “outweighs the ever-increasing losses they are experiencing.”

“Well, we’re going to change that equation for them rather quickly with this plan,” Parris said. “I want to put their names right out there. I want to publicize the fact that they’re actually allowing these crimes to occur. We know that crime is contagious, and the only sure way to stop it is ‘certainty of apprehension.'”

Lancaster’s Criminal Justice Commission has been asked to determine which retailers are not prosecuting shoplifters and inform the City Council within 90 days, Parris said.

The three-month warning would give store owners “ample time to modify ...  their policies regarding prosecution of shoplifters,” he added.

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-- Ann M. Simmons in Santa Clarita