Wal-Mart cracks down on shoplifting

BENTONVILLE, Ark. Wal-Mart is reportedly cracking down on shoplifting by lowering the age at which it recommends prosecuting first-time offenders to 16 from 18. This stricter policy follows the company's decline in first quarter profits, largely attributed to an increase in shoplifting, employee theft and other inventory loss. Although the age has been lowered, the policy still reflects the company's recommendation to only prosecute first-time offenders when the items stolen cost at least $25.

According to reports, Wal-Mart spokesman John Smiley said the stricter shoplifting policy was not a reflection of the company's concern about theft, but rather the result of input from the stores.

Since this new shoplifting guideline only refers to first-time offenders, repeat offenders can be prosecuted regardless of age.