Is video evidence enough to convict shoplifting?
In 50 Words or Less: Store security video evidence, without any in-person identification, can be used to convict you. When showing the video, the prosecution needs to lay a proper foundation for what is shown by establishing that the video accurately represents a certain location at a certain time.
Is a video enough to convict?
Just like all evidence, tape collected by a surveillance camera must be properly obtained by law enforcement for it to be admissible in court. That means that typically, the police need a warrant to acquire the evidence—without one, the evidence itself, and any discoveries it may lead to, could be thrown out.
How long does shoplifting stay on your record?
After you have been convicted of shoplifting the charge, the conviction, fingerprints, and any other documentation surrounding the case will remain on your criminal record permanently. That means all of the information regarding the shoplifting is viewable to anyone who requests a criminal record check.
When can video evidence be used as proof?
In order for photo and video evidence to be admissible in court it must meet two basic requirements: relevance and authenticity. In order for evidence to be relevant it must have probative value. In other words, it must either support or undermine the truth of any point at issue in the legal proceedings.
Can you get arrested for shoplifting without being caught?
Even if you successfully shoplift and exit the store without being caught, you can still be arrested. When there is missing inventory or if something distinctive is gone from the shelves, businesses may review security footage. When they find the clip of footage showing when the theft took place they will call it into the authorities.
How do shoplifters steal small items from packages?
Many shoplifters, when stealing something small, will take the item out of the package and put it in their purse (if female) or their pocket and simply walk out with it. Eventually though, that package is found with the item missing from it.
Can social media be used to catch shoplifters?
Once sufficient evidence has been collected, police can take action. More often businesses are leveraging the power of social media to nab shoplifters. Posting the video or image of a shoplifter to social media accounts has lead to a number of convictions. You would be surprised at who sometimes drops a dime on their ex-spouse, err, on the thief.
Do businesses have the right to confront shoplifters?
The quick answer is, yes! In many cases, a place of business will wait until the shoplifter has left the front door (s) before approaching them. This proves to employees that the shoplifter had the intent to steal and went through with the action of stealing.