Chicago Stores Report Increase in Laundry Detergent Thefts

 Posted on March 14,2012 in Theft

It’s not particularly unusual to see certain products under lock and key at grocery stores and pharmacies, as retailers regularly restrict access to higher-value items in order to prevent shoplifting. But you may soon notice a new addition to the expensive face creams and medications behind those glass doors – laundry detergent.

Drug stores report laundry soap thefts

Stores across Chicago are reporting a rash of laundry detergent thefts, and some, such as CVS, have resorted to keeping laundry detergent locked up. According to CBS Chicago, laundry detergent – in particular Tide – has become a big seller on the black market, and some believe that drug dealers may even be accepting laundry detergent as payment for drugs. Authorities point to the fact that laundry detergent is both expensive, and a necessity, as reason behind the surge in thefts.

In Illinois, shoplifting – also known as retail theft – is taken very seriously. Even misdemeanor theft charges (where the item that was stolen has a value of less than $150) can result in jail time, and those convicted of shoplifting in Illinois could also face a fine of up to $2,500. Additionally, Illinois theft convictions can stay on your criminal record for many years and have long-term negative consequences relating to things like future employment and housing options. If you are facing shoplifting charges in Illinois, it’s essential that you hire an experienced Elk Grove criminal defense attorney who can aggressively advocate for your rights. Contact Elk Grove defense lawyer Christopher M. Cosley for a free consultation regarding your shoplifting charges.