I work in the electronics department of a retailer. Because of the "cool stuff" that I sell, I get a large influx of teenagers coming to my department. Most of them really cannot afford to buy the products that they ask about. Most often, I spend my time policing them as they try to lurk around corners trying to unlock spider raps and pick at locks with pocket knives.
I have been told by management that I am not to apprehend any customers for any reason. That is to be handled by security. But there have been days when our one security officer has the day off and they are still in the process of hiring a second security person. I have thought of calling the local police about some of the ruffians, but all that will result is that I will be fired.
I work in a middle class suburb so the teens are not stealing stuff so that they can sell it for food. They steal because they are bored or they want stuff that their parents won't buy them. Many of their parents are lawyers and that is why the policy is so strict about laying a hand on any of these juveniles.
I will give you an example of one of my encounters.
I group of 6 teens came to my department and were hanging around the contract cell phones. One of the teens started kicking the glass display case with his boots at a phone at retails for about $700.
When I asked "Can I help you?"
The kicker of the display case said "Don't think so dude. I'm straight!"
And all of the teens laughed at me.
Just by chance, a manager did come by my department to ask a question and all of the punks took off like I just farted.
Well, you see, it's not "your" store. The store you work for has set guidelines about to handle this situation. Either you follow those guidelines or find another job. If your employer is willing to accept some theft and vandalism as a cost of doing business, it's not your place to decide otherwise. And, if you can't take smart-alecky teenagers, you should ask to be transferred to the appliance department.
kick their ***
