Despite a focus on Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems, closed circuit television cameras and an aggressive youth shoplifting awareness campaign, shoplifting at Exchange facilities rose 22 percent last year, from 37 incidents in 2008 to 45 in 2009. As a result, the cost of merchandise involved in shoplifting at Hill Air Force Base Exchange last year rose from $4,415.97 in 2008 to $4,771.97.
With a dual mission to provide quality goods and services at competitively low prices and generate earnings to support Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, which has contributed more than $2.4 billion to military quality of life programs in the past ten years, continues to focus its efforts on reducing theft.
"Shoplifting from the exchange affects the entire military community," said General Manager Don Sydlik. "Because AAFES is a military command with a mission to return earnings to quality of life, shoplifting impacts the bottom line and, in essence, takes money directly from the pockets of military families."
If shoplifting is suspected, AAFES Loss Prevention associates turn the issue over to local law enforcement. In addition to possible disciplinary action and criminal prosecution, the Federal Claims Collection Act, which began March 1, 2002, allows AAFES to enact a flat, administrative cost (Civil Recovery) of $200. There may be further fees, in addition to the Civil Recovery Program, depending on the condition of the recovered merchandise.
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