Local Businesses Are Giving Shoplifting A Face

PULLMAN — Shoplifting is a problem that small businesses confront constantly. A few convenient stores in Pullman are taking a public approach to discouraging potential thieves.

When you walk into the Cougar Corner Mart you will see all sorts of products behind the counter. If you look just above the merchandise you will see several snapshots from the store’s surveillance cameras.

These posters display the faces of people who have been caught in the act.

Brendan Grimm, an attendant at the store, says that the purpose of the posters is to “shame” the individuals. He says the posters are to let people know that

Grimm says you the posters are to let people know that,“you can’t just steal from a local business and get away with it”

This strategy is not limited to this store. The Corner Mart has similar posters. They did not want to comment on them, but students take notice.

Molly Nakao, WSU junior,  thinks the posters are effective because she says, “I would hate to be that person who got caught, I think it’s appropriate because the reason there is because someone stole from you”

Ashley Meyer, another WSU student, also thinks that the posters are appropriate, but offered a word of advice to someone considering shoplifting.

“You don’t need to steal, and have that possibly end up on your permanent record” Meyer said

Along with the crime going on your record shoplifting at these stores can end up costing you financially. At both the Cougar Corner Mart, and Corner Mart if you are caught shoplifting you will be charged a civil penalty of $200.