WASHINGTON -- With the national economy faltering, police are expecting an increase in shoplifting this holiday season, authorities said.
Shoplifting includes employees taking merchandise out the back door, not just customers smuggling items out the front door.
Shoplifters come in all sizes and types, including elderly women and groups, Montgomery County Police Department Detective David Hill said.
The National Retail Federation Estimates shoplifting cost companies nationwide about $34.8 billion in 2007, about $348 for every household in the country. The security costs and merchandise losses trickle down to consumers.
Some companies said they're going to be extra vigilant looking for people who are stealing this season.
