Typically, when the general public hears a news story about theft from a department store, it concerns a customer who is accused of trying to steal something from the store. Sometimes, however, it is actually the employees who are accused of stealing from the store. Three Nebraska JC Penney’s employees were recently arrested for theft crimes for allegedly stealing merchandise from the store.
The investigation into the alleged thefts supposedly began on June 16. Management at the stores were concerned that some of their employees were abusing their positions as cashiers. The managers suspected that these employees would buy merchandise from each other, but the items would be heavily discounted. Then, the managers suspected that they would return the items for the original price without the discount. Details about the specific items or their costs were not made publicly available.
Supposedly, approximately $7,400 worth of losses was accumulated. A 19-year-old was arrested and accused of stealing over $500, which upgrades the theft charge to a felony that would mean a prison sentence of up to five years if convicted. A 21-year-old and a 17-year-old also face felony charges and potentially up to 20 years of incarceration. It is not clear what evidence led the investigators to issue the individuals different charges.
Whether the charges involved theft crimes or another criminal accusation, a conviction cannot be obtained without sufficient evidence. It is up to Nebraska prosecutors to actually prove the specifics of the allegations in court. These accused individuals will have every reasonable opportunity to defend themselves and refute any evidence that may be offered against them in court.
Source: The North Platte Bulletin, “Three employees arrested, charged with theft”, George Lauby, July 2, 2014