Self-service machines have made shopping more convenient, but they also present new challenges. A criminal defense attorney is urging shoppers to be careful when using these machines. He says your body language could get costumers in trouble. By following these lawyer’s tips, you can avoid a potentially humiliating situation and enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience at the self-checkout kiosks.
For example, the self-checkout kiosks have eliminated the need to wait in long checkout lines. That’s cool, since your visit to the store will be shorter, and you’ll have more time for other activities, right? However, with this convenience comes a new set of situations. Shoppers may face false accusations of theft, even if they did not intend to shoplift. As a criminal defense attorney, Justin Sparks have seen many cases where shoppers have been humiliated and punished for simple mistakes. And many cases have to do with the body position when shopping.
Watch your body language at the checkout counter so they don’t think you’re stealing.
The way you position your body when using a self-checkout machine could get you into trouble. Avoid huddling over the machine or covering camera angles. Instead, take a step back and realize that someone is always watching. Shoplifters often try to rush through the process, scanning items quickly to avoid detection. Don’t make this mistake. Stay focused and take your time. Slow and steady wins the race and gets you away from being charged.
Moreover, distractions can lead to costly mistakes. When using a self-checkout machine, stay focused on the task at hand. Avoid using your cell phone, talking to others, or engaging in any other activity that may distract you. Make sure to scan every item and watch the screen before putting the item down. This way, you can be sure that the item has been scanned and added to your total.
After scanning your goods or groceries, take a moment to review your receipts. I have to remark this: never leave the store without reading the receipt and corroborating that the list corresponds with what you’ve purchased. Double-check everything scanned if needed, because you may have been overcharged. It may seem like a small detail, but it could save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
Legal charges for theft could cost you thousands of dollars.
The consequences of self-checkout theft can be severe. Punishments vary from state to state, but even a misdemeanor charge can result in jail time. Anything above $1,000 is considered a felony charge, and cases involving amounts above $25,000 could result in up to 20 years behind bars. What is more, shoppers accused of stealing may face criminal charges as well as civil demands.
Which are the most robbed shopping centers in the United States?
The shopping centers most prone to robberies in the United States include:
- 1. Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota.
- 2. NorthPark Center, Dallas, Texas.
- 3. King of Prussia Mall, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
- 4. SouthPark Mall, Charlotte, North Carolina.
- 5. The Galleria, Houston, Texas.
- 6. Aventura Mall, Miami, Florida.
- 7. Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, Illinois.
- 8. Westfield Topanga, Canoga Park, California.
- 9. Lenox Square Mall, Atlanta, Georgia.
- 10. Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, New Jersey.