NCJ Number
103909
Journal
Law and Order Dated: (November 1986) Pages: 51-55
Date Published
1986
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Reducing the amount of cash in registers, using hidden cameras, educating employees, and publicizing security programs are all potentially effective ways of reducing the high rate of robberies of convenience stores.
Abstract
Although most law enforcement officers believe that no solution exists for these robberies, combined public and private security efforts are showing results. Southland Corporation has taken the lead in this area. It instructs all employees in deterrence of robbery, violence, and rape. After finding that the amount of cash and not the store hours is the crucial factor in crime, it has also reduced to less than $30 the total cash kept in store registers after dark. Employees are also trained to cooperate with police detectives after a robbery to improve the chances of apprehending a suspect. Private security personnel are playing a growing role as well, and the private sector now spends $10 billion more than the public sector for security. Law enforcement personnel and private security personnel currently do not communicate regularly, although a coordinated, joint program might help reduce convenience store crime. Using surveillance cameras to photograph suspects is another promising approach.