Peterson’s loss prevention staff monitors patrons at the base exchange. Among Peterson’s loss prevention equipment is the Sensormatic Closed Circuit Television system which controls approximately 50 cameras placed in all public areas of the base exchange. Shoplifting is divided into two legal categories: misdemeanor and felony. Theft of property worth less than $999 is considered a misdemeanor; theft of items valued at $1,000 or more is considered a felony. (Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Ray Bowden)

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Shoplifting comes with heavy price

Published March 16, 2010
By Staff Sgt. Landon Elledge
21st Security Forces Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 21st Security Forces Squadron and local Army Air Force Exchange Service loss prevention staff have dealt with a rise in shoplifting during recent months. While AAFES loss prevention staff and security forces Airmen have and will continue to be successful in apprehending shoplifters, it is important to address the expensive price incurred by this crime.

Airmen who shoplift face punitive action in accordance with the Uniformed Code of Military Justice and could receive up to six months confinement, total forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and a bad conduct discharge. Civilian shoplifters could be charged with a civil offense by the city of Colorado Springs, mandated to appear in court and pay all court fees along with remitting a fine. Depending on the circumstances, civilian offenders could even face jail or prison.

In addition, convicted shoplifters are required to pay a $200 fee to AAFES, could be barred from all Front Range military installations for five years, and may lose their base exchange and commissary shopping privileges for one year.

For a convicted shoplifter's privileges to be reinstated before this suspension or barment ends, each offender must complete a shoplifter's alternative course consisting of classroom sessions and more than 100 hours of community service. Shoplifting offenses can also impact an Airman or civilian's security clearance and career, and often remain a part of an offender's permanent record.

When you consider the high price that shoplifters eventually pay for their crime, it's obvious the best way to walk out of a store with a product is to first pay for it.