Natick Security Guard Accused Of Running Shoplifting Ring
NATICK (CBS) - A Macy's store security officer is accused of using his inside knowledge to steal from the store he was supposed to be protecting. Natick Police arrested 23-year-old Kurt Hampe last week after Macy's got a tip from City Sports in Boston, where Hampe also worked.
"The caller indicated that he brings in a group to steal when he is the only Security Officer working," says the police report. "It is believed that Hampe moves the cameras before his group enters the store to further conceal their activities." Police arrested him Thursday after officers say they caught him, his brother, and three others trying to steal more than $7,000 worth of merchandise.
It's the latest in a string of shoplifting cases in Natick. Police have posted surveillance video from several recent incidents on its Facebook page.
"I think around the holidays it changes a little more because I think people become a little more desperate and are apt to try to steal," says Henry Kanner, owner of the Natick Outdoor Store. He says the pain eventually trickles down to the customers. "Ultimately absolutely your prices have to be a tad higher because the cost of goods are more now."
Macy's managers are looking into whether Hampe was involved with any other shoplifting incidents before his arrest.
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