It is the primary job of a loss prevention agent to apprehend shoplifters and detain them until the police arrive. At which time it is the police officer’s job to either arrest the shoplifter or issue them a citation for retail theft (depending on the law in the city or town you happen to be working in). Therefore it is vital that the loss prevention agent build and maintain a working relationship with their local law enforcement agency.
Over the years I have managed to establish a rapport with several great police officers who are happy to show up when called and do what needs to be done. However, I have heard a number of horror stories from others in this line of work. In certain cases I’ve been told of officers showing up and being irritated, or “having an attitude”, about having to arrest the subject. Others have complained about being treated like a criminal themselves by the responding officers. To this I quote the old adage “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”.
It is vital that as a loss prevention agent you follow all of the proper steps to making an apprehension, have your facts straight and have all the necessary paperwork in order for the officer when he/ she arrives – every time. See, nobody likes having to clean up somebody else’s mess – including the police. If your work is shoddy and unprofessional you can expect to be treated as being unprofessional. Be confident and precise, show the proper attention to detail and before you know it a great working relationship will have been established between law enforcement and the loss prevention agent.
For more information about loss prevention consultants or loss prevention investigator contact us: Loss Prevention Agent or call 1.770.426.0547 – Atlanta Georgia
