Shoplifting epidemic hits bookstore

A rash of campus bookstore thefts in the last two weeks has led to the arrests of six people allegedly shoplifting $301.67 in merchandise.

University of Arizona Police Department Cmdr. Brian Seastone said the number of shoplifting cases at the UA Associated Students Bookstore this semester is "higher than usual."

Security guards and undercover officers have nabbed students allegedly stealing everything from textbooks to key chains from the store.

"Right now there is a high volume of shoplifting cases because it is the rush period," said Victor Dousten, an ASUA bookstore security guard. "People who have the mentality to shoplift have seen the items and school supplies they need and are now going to get them."

Shoplifting is a misdemeanor under Arizona law, and carries a maximum $2,500 fine and six months in jail, Seastone said.

Police officers have the option of putting student shoplifters in the Dean of Students' Diversion Program, Seastone said. Students that complete the diversion program avoid an arrest record, as well as the risk of fines or jail time, he said.

Seastone added that bookstore security officers can decide if they want to initiate a Code of Conduct violation through the dean's office. That violation could remain on students' academic records.