shoplifting prevention class scheduled

Seymour Herald/Library Photo

published: November 10 2008 02:27 PM updated:: November 10 2008 05:54 PM

The Sevierville Police Department (SPD) has scheduled a Shoplifting Prevention class and Business Watch Program presentation on Thursday, November 13, 2008, from 2:00PM-4:00PM at the Sevierville Civic Center. SPD Sgt. Rebecca Cowan will instruct the class.

There is no charge for the class. For additional information, please contact Sgt. Cowan at 453-5506 ext. 3001.

The shoplifting prevention class is designed for business owners and retail workers. Topics to be covered include shoplifting related laws, owner rights, police officer procedures, methods and tools used by shoplifters, how to detain a shoplifter and prevention. Shoplifting statistics for our area will also be presented.

Nationally, less than 4% of the billions of dollars lost each year to shoplifters is recovered. In fact, it is estimated that for every one dollar that is recovered, over $27.00 is lost due to retail theft.

The Business Watch Program was started by the SPD in 2006. The main component of the program is a system for timely communication between businesses in the event that a shoplifting, robbery or other crime occurs.