I am an instructor for both court and probation approved classes here in my local jurisdiction. Most of the participants that call to come in for a class do so because it is some form of a requirement from either the court, probation, or a diversion program. I always interview those attending classes and ask what it was that they stole and why they did it. The answer to these two questions varies greatly from person to person. Some steal for the thrill of it, while others claim to do it out of necessity. Almost all; however, will agree that they have been stealing for a long, long time and it has simply become a habit, a very bad habit.
Here is the story of Joe:
Joe is 24 years old and lives at home with his parents. He was brought up in a middle class family with working parents. While he didn't grow up poor by any means, he claims that there were a lot of things he wanted or wished he could do, but simply couldn't. He said he started stealing as far back as he could remember. It started with candy at the supermarket as a young boy. He said he would just do it every once in a while. By the time he was 10, he couldn't leave a store without taking something, even if it was small. The items could range from a pack of gum, to a t-shirt, to a watch, anything he could fit in his pocket.
As Joe got older his theft got more elaborate and intense. He started stealing not just from stores, but from cars, houses, hotels, and offices. He was more than just a Petty thief, but now really turning into a felon. He always felt guilty about the stealing, but at the same time got a rush from it. The habit of stealing for him was as normal as brushing ones teeth in the morning, just a normal part of the day.
Joe was finally arrested at age 17 for stealing alcohol from a grocery store. At that time he was required to take an alcohol awareness classes, do 25 hours of community service, and participate in a 10 hour theft education class.
It really wasn't until age 23 that Joe realized how big his problem was. He was finally arrested and spent 1 year in jail for breaking and entering. He finally was ordered to attend classes and get help.
Theft and shoplifting is more than just a crime. For many it can be become an addiction and is often characterized as an impulse control disorder. Those of suffer from the disorder would be much better served getting help educationally then spending time behind bars. Theft addiction is a serious problem that should be addressed.
