Costs of

Costs of

Shoplifting

BLACKSBURG—Shoplifting has become so widespread that it is costing consumers billions of dollars each year as the retail losses result in higher prices.

Persons who are tempted to shoplift need to think about the possible legal consequences, reminded a Virginia Tech Extension specialist in consumer education, and the probable effect on their future.

These consequences are much more severe than in the past because of increasing losses to store owners, said the specialist Glen H. Mitchell. Store owners now are prosecuting shoplifters almost 100 percent of the time, and the resulting fines and jail sentences are stiff ones.

However, there is another aspect to be aware of the Virginia Tech faculty member said.

Those who see someone shoplifting have several options. One is to tell someone of authority in the store what they have seen, and let the store follow up on it.

Another possibility is to do nothing; to look away and pretend they don't see it.

“When deciding which option to choose, consumers should keep in mind that shoplifting not only costs the store time, energy, and money, but the cost to them is increasing each year,” Mitchell said.

Dog Trials Set

The Bird Dog Field Trials sponsored by the Madison County Wildlife Association will be held on Saturday, October 28, beginning at 9 a.ni. at the Ernest Yowell farm on Route 652, two miles west of Madison.

The trials consist of three classes—one for dog owners who are residents of Madison County, one for non-resident dog owners and a grand championship pitting the Madison County champion against the out-of-county champion.

Entry fees for the field trials include $1 for membership in the association and a $3 charge per dog. Pairing will be the day of the trials.

For further information, contact Bobby Tanner or Smith Blankenbaker of Madison or John H. Bawkey of Culpeper.