I was recently asked to provide some further details surrounding the crime of shoplifting.  The person was aware it was a crime to remove items from stores without paying for them.  They wanted to know the other aspects of the law which would constitute shoplifting.

      Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266 Section 30A is the law entitled "Shoplifting."  In addition to the traditional description of this offense, it provides several other actions which constitute a violation of this law.  It is a violation to intentionally conceal merchandise upon your person or otherwise with the intent to deprive the shop of the proceeds.  It is also a crime to switch price tags or labels and attempt to purchase the item in question. Along these lines, it is illegal to switch merchandise from one container to another.  A gold watch cannot be placed inside an air freshener box for example.  

Store workers or others cannot reduce the retail value of an item without proper authorization.  For example, the clerk in a supermarket cannot charge one dollar for an item such as a five pound prime rib. This would be intentionally under recording the value of an item and would be a violation.  Also regarding supermarkets, this law makes it unlawful to remove a shopping cart from an establishment without consent of the owner.  

      Penalties include a fine or imprisonment, depending on the value of the item.  This crime is also arrestable without a warrant.  Any action contrary to buying a specific item can be construed as shoplifting.  The presence of bar codes on items has eliminated much of the ticket switching, but stealing is still a major problem.  Billions of dollars are lost by companies every year due to shoplifting.  These losses are passed on to all consumers by means of increased prices.  Please be aware of what this crime consists of and report anything you witness to the shop keepers or the police.   

Reserve police officer applications are now available at the Dudley Police Department. Applications must be picked up in person and returned by 5pm, Monday March 20th. The process is currently available for Dudley residents. More information can be obtained by contacting our agency, the Town Hall (Dudley Police Evaluation Committee), or by checking the Dudley Cable Access Channel and the Town Web Site (http://dudleyma.gov/).

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