Wilmorite is updating its technology to combat shoplifting at malls, specifically at The Mall at Greece Ridge in Greece, N.Y. This new technology is designed to alert law enforcement when known shoplifters enter the property. Al D’Agostino, vice president and corporate security director with Wilmorite, stated that information about known shoplifters is provided either by law enforcement or based on personal experiences of theft incidents at the mall.
The cameras installed at the mall read license plates and search for vehicles linked to previous shoplifting incidents. When a known shoplifter attempts to return to the mall, an alert is generated on screens at the mall security office and the police station. This often deters shoplifters from attempting to steal as they know they are being monitored once they enter the property.
If a license plate hits for another reason, the mall receives a call from law enforcement, informing them of the situation. The technology also allows the mall security team to guide law enforcement officers towards the vehicle and provide them with footage or images of any individuals involved in the shoplifting incident.
Eastview Mall in Victor has been using similar technology for a few years now, resulting in a significant increase in shoplifting arrests. D’Agostino mentioned that this technology helps capture footage and images that can be handed over to law enforcement for effective problem-solving.
Additionally, there is a police officer assigned to The Mall at Greece Ridge and two Ontario County sheriff’s deputies assigned to Eastview Mall. This ensures that when a problem arises, both security personnel and law enforcement officers can respond quickly and effectively. The proactive approach to combating shoplifting through updated technology and law enforcement presence is helping create a safer shopping environment at these malls.
