A Goulburn store-owner (who did not want to be identified) has spoken out against shoplifters.
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On November 9, 2020 two people stole more than $300 worth of costume jewelry from the homewares store. The pair allegedly stole items from multiple businesses in Goulburn as well.
"Things are hard enough as it is without shoplifters making it worse," the business-woman said.
With COVID-19 factors new stock is hard to get get at the moment. The owner said this, compounded with the impact of restrictions and having to close earlier this year, made things very difficult.
"We can't replace [the stolen stock] this close to Christmas - everyone loses out."
According to the business-owner shoplifting occurs all year round.
She said they tried to "run a friendly shop", which was difficult "when you're on edge and watching all the time".
She said people who shoplifted came from all different backgrounds, "they don't come in with shoplifter written across their forehead".
"There was no strong deterrent for shoplifters.
"I can ban them from the shop but they will just go somewhere else."
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Officer in charge at Goulburn Police Station Inspector Matt Hinton said the police ran "operations on a regular basis targeting shoplifting".
"We will review CCTV footage and take action whenever we can," he said.
