Apple increases police presence at California stores to deter theft
In an effort to combat theft at their California retail locations, Apple is asking local police departments for their help.
For example, Apple is contracting police to provide “tighter security” at its locations in Sacramento and Roseville. The officers on duty are privately contracted and paid directly by Apple. Thanks to this no tax dollars are at use.
Currently multiple Apple stores already have security guards, but this will help embrace their efforts. Many malls provide their own security guards, but once the suspects leaves the building there’s not much that can be done. Many “guards” at these locations are only there to serve as a visual deterrent. Apparently Apple’s policy states that they are not to confront the suspects and to call 911. Just a month ago photos (some of which can be seen below) were taken of thieves running out with thousands of dollars worth of electronics while an Apple security guard stands by and watches.
According to CBS Sacramento:
While Roseville police say it’s common to hire police officers for security at retail giants during holidays and large events, this is a bit unusual.
Since we have had officers at the mall, we have had no incidents,” Baquera added. Both the Roseville and Sacramento Apple stores have been robbery free for several weeks now. Officers are putting many consumers at ease, and some are even walking up for a friendly chat.
Apple stores in California specifically have been a prime target of robberies. In many of these instances, the thieves enter the store during normal business hours and swipe as many demo Apple products as possible – usually in just several minutes.