Police and Target Cracking Down on Shoplifting
South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka recognized the efforts of the local Target in cracking down on shoplifting. Shoplifting is a growing crime both nationally and locally. During the first six months of the year shoplifting nationwide has increased by 24% compared to the same period in 2023. In South Brunswick shoplifting has tripled from 18 incidents in the first six months of 2023 to 51 incidents in the first six months of 2024.
Target has stepped up its enforcement efforts to address the growing trend. Since April 1st of this year, 11 people have been arrested from 26 shoplifting cases at the Target store on Route 1. No single pattern was identified for the increased shoplifting cases. The incidents appear to be crimes of opportunity with a wide array of stolen items. Here are some of the incidents;
- Earlier this month, a 25-year-old New York City man took price tags off toothbrush holders ($4.00), affixed them to breast pumps ($499), and tried completing the purchase.
- A 40-year-old Princeton man stole candy, Pokemon cards, and a non-working Roomba vacuum that was part of a display.
- A 47-year-old Monmouth Junction man stole clothing by putting it on over the clothes he wore into the store – twice.
- A 64-year-old Monmouth Junction man took a price tag off of an Airheads candy bar and put it on a container of Whey protein.
- An 18-year-old man from Cranbury tried concealing a large LED light in his pants.
Each person arrested was transported to police headquarters. They were photographed, fingerprinted, and given a summons to appear in court. They each face up to a $1,000 fine for shoplifting.
“I want to acknowledge the work being done by Target to stop shoplifting. Target’s loss prevention staff is active and is trying to deter thefts. We want the public to know that these crimes are being prosecuted. Shoplifting costs everyone and we need it to stop,” said Chief Hayducka. He added, “We will continue to crack down on retail theft in coordination with our business community.”
