New law combats shopliftingby State Representative Mike Bishop
This is especially true of shoplifting, which costs retailers
millions of dollars per year. Shoplifters have begun exploiting technologies
that reduce or eliminate their chances of being caught. The governor has signed two bills I introduced to address
this problem. Public Acts 101 and 102 of 2002 target shoplifters who use
equipment to shield stolen property from theft-detection devices or to
deactivate detection devices. These acts prohibit the manufacture, distribution or possession
of tools to shield merchandise or to deactivate or remove a theft-detection
device. A first-time offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one
year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Each additional offense is
a felony. The legislation empowers store employees to detain suspected
offenders for a reasonable investigation of the crime. The new law gives merchants the tools they need to combat
crafty criminals. It gives law enforcement the authority to prosecute
to the fullest extent of the law. As a former local prosecutor, I know
firsthand how important it is to have the tools to bring criminals to
justice. The Michigan Retailers Association worked closely with
me on passage of these bills, and I appreciate retailers’ support. Good public policy on such issues as shoplifting, credit
card fraud, item pricing and consumer protection is the result of open
communication between business and government. If you have questions or
comments on this legislation or other retail concerns, please contact
my office at 517.373.1773. State Representative Mike Bishop (R-Rochester) represents Michigan’s 45th House District, covering northeast Oakland County. |
Technology
is taking center stage in Michigan’s economy and helps industries
reach their full potential. But technology can be a double-edged sword.