A person is guilty of theft if they dishonestly appropriate property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it. 

Security Operative(s) should take steps to establish what has happened and who is involved. The Client would normally deal with such an incident internally unless there were aggravating factors present. 

The following questions will support the Security Operative(s) in the decision making process. 

Are there any aggravating factors? 

• Is the stolen goods of a high value? The definition of high value here is a professional judgment call
• Is there evidence of escalating behaviour? Or previous incidents of a similar nature? 
• Have any threats or violence been used in the course of the theft? 
• What is the impact on the victim? 
• What are the victim’s wishes?
• Is there a hate element?

see attached flowchart below