They’ve been framed!
A vintage market in Brooklyn has fallen victim to repeated thefts in recent months, prompting the owners to create an artistic collage showcasing the faces of the alleged thieves caught on camera.
The Little Brooklyn Market, located in Williamsburg, has been dealing with a surge in post-pandemic petty crime, with an average of four to six shoplifters targeting the store every month, according to co-owner Jacqueline Ryu.
To address this issue, the staff decided to display surveillance photos of 16 suspects in a visually striking collage framed by a door adorned with colorful designs.
“It definitely helps deter repeat offenders. Those featured on the wall usually do not return. So, it has been effective in that regard,” explained Ryu.
She noted that the onset of COVID-19 saw a significant increase in shoplifting, attributing it to the anonymity provided by face masks.
The market, which offers a variety of products including jewelry, sunglasses, and clothing, has suffered significant losses due to shoplifting, with the total figure reaching five figures since the pandemic began.
One persistent offender, depicted in a photo wearing a yellow cap, has become notorious for stealing items for his girlfriend during each visit to the store.
Citywide, shoplifting in New York City has surged by 64% from June 2019 to June 2023, as per recent data.
In 2022, shops across the state reported a combined loss of $4.4 billion due to theft, as stated by Governor Kathy Hochul.
At the Little Brooklyn Market, thieves often target rings due to their easy concealability, but instances of theft involving other items, such as sunglasses, have also been recorded.
Despite witnessing thefts on camera, Ryu expressed hesitance in confronting suspected shoplifters without solid proof.
The increase in shoplifting incidents during the pandemic posed a significant challenge for the store, especially as sales declined, making it difficult to sustain the business.
For more updates, you can follow The Little Brooklyn Market on Instagram.
Original Source: The New York Post
