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WALMART customers who stole from the store have been issued an unusual punishment.
The shoplifters will be forced to perform a “humiliating” task at the Walmart Supercentre in the coming months.
A Michigan judge ordered Walmart customers to wash cars in the store’s parking lot when the weather gets warmer.
The shoplifters are expected to show up at the Grand Blanc Township’s Walmart for weekend events in March and April to wash cars, as reported by The Associated Press.
Judge Jeffrey Clothier believes this punishment will make shoplifters think twice before committing the crime again.
The lifelong Genesee County resident has been an attorney for nearly 30 years, according to his campaign website.
“I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t, and I want to ensure the Grand Blanc and Fenton Courts are cutting edge examples for others to follow across the state,” he wrote.
After studying law, he returned to his home city to give back to his people.
“I don’t think everybody that steals is a bad person. Sometimes people are just down on their luck,” said Clothier.
“But there’s going to be consequences when you break the law.”
Shoplifting is considered a misdemeanor which usually results in jail time, fines, probation, or community service.
The Michigan judge started ordering “Walmart washes” as a punishment this week after seeing nearly 50 cases on the docket, as reported by The Associated Press.
The town’s Walmart was forced to give police a parking spot due to the number of calls they get regarding theft.
Between 75 and 100 people are expected to show up for the car washes in the spring.
The car washes will be free, the judge told The Associated Press.
All materials will be provided by the Walmart Supercentre, as reported by The Associated Press.
Anti-theft measures rolled out by retailers
Retailers across the US and Canada have rolled out strategies designed to combat theft. The U.S. Sun has compiled a list of measures that have been implemented at stores.
- Locking items in cabinets
- Security pegs
- Security cameras
- Signs warning about the impact of theft
- Receipt scanners
- Receipt checks
- Carts with locking technology
“I think it will be humiliating to be out there washing cars if you see someone you know,” Clothier said.
Several city officials and lawmakers applauded the judge for his unique approach to the common crime.
“It’s an innovative approach,” said county Prosecutor David Leyton.
“Even if it deters one person, then there’s some success there.”
Clothier said he will be out in the parking lot washing cars with shoplifters on wash days.
Walmart did not immediately reply to The U.S. Sun’s request for comment.
