Police In Charlotte Battling Summer Surge Of ShopliftsCHARLOTTE, N.C.--Paul Ra is the owner of E.C. Beauty Supply in Charlotte's South End. Over the last five years, as he says the prices of wigs, hair and other beauty products have increased so have the thefts. "I think with our economy not doing as well there's definitely a hike in crime," Ra said. Charlotte Mecklenburg Police have reportedly seen a twenty percent increase citywide. In some areas, its as high as thirty percent and its clear some merchants are taking precautions. At Ra's store, you're greeted by a camera just after you pass through the front door. "I try to keep a good eye on everybody just in case," Ra said. That camera is one of twenty-four inside and outside the store. Ra has used them to capture shoplifters in action."I feel sad...that they are trying to steal," he said. Ra prints out their pictures and posts them up before sharing the shots with police and other beauty supply stores in the Charlotte area and as far away as Gastonia. An all out effort to protect his merchandise against a surge in thefts. "I try to work hard, to provide for our customers, the products they need. When people steal, that goes into my pricing," he said. |
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