An Open Air Market for Stolen Goods
In Seattle, police have arrested 22 taxi drivers and three parking lot attendants for purchasing and reselling stolen goods.
(click image for news report)
Fencing stolen goods in Seattle
During a six month-long investigation, undercover detectives posed as shoplifters who walked past cabs with bags of merchandise. They were hailed by cab drivers who purchased the items, even after being told they were stolen. Drivers also placed orders for goods they wanted. Electronics, cds and dvds, perfume, iPods, handbags, clothing …
“Several of the drivers even told the UC (undercover) detectives, ‘I’ll take everything you can get,’” according to KOMO News.
Fencing
It’s a major part of the shoplifting process. Shoplifters, especially “professionals,” sell the items at pennies on the dollar value. The “fence,” then resells the product, often at a significant discount from what the product is legitimately sold for.
Seemed Pretty Blatant
The news reports include surveillance tapes of the activity. It appears to be pretty open, and it’s been taking place at a busy spot in downtown Seattle.
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You can do something about shoplifting! American Theft Prevention Products has tools to help retailers combat shoplifting. Visit www.AmericanTheftPrevention.com or call 866-416-0999 or 847-972-6540.
Tags: fencing, sale of stolen goods, Seattle, shoplifters, thieves
