Last week, we discussed how employee retail theft is on the rise. Our solution to this troubling trend is to recommend on-site security guards for your retain or commercial location.
Now, it’s even easier (and free!) to apprehend and process “low-risk” offenders like shoplifters. A company called the Corrective Education Company (CEC) is offering a free program to companies that would allow security guards to process shoplifters using just an iPad equipped with a fingerprint scanner in as few as 20 minutes.
Once the security guard scans in the offender’s fingerprints and photo, they are compared to a database of previous offenders. The database can be local to the company or, with the company’s permission, would be shared with other companies for a greater pool of knowledge. If the loss prevention officer determines this person is a first-time offender or very low risk, he or she has the option to take part in the CEC Correct program.
The CEC Correct program starts with an admission of guilt which is signed on the iPad. The individual then has 90 days pay for and complete the 6-8 hour corrective program through CEC. If they are successful in the program, no charges are brought against them. It’s a completely voluntary program and so doesn’t infringe on anyone’s rights.
If the person doesn’t want to participate in the program or if the security guard determines that the person is a felon or previous offender, traditional methods of prosecution are pursued.
Processing low-risk offenders on-site allows law enforcement officers to focus on more critical issues. The CEC reports that use of the program reduces a company’s apprehension time and expenses by 50-80%.
Of course, the program relies on there being competent loss prevention officers on site to observe, apprehend, and evaluate the offender. For access to highly-qualified security guards for your retail or commercial property, contact us today.
