Authorities battle aggressive shoplifting tactics

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Brazen shoplifters attacking anyone who gets in their way are becoming more common, authorities said.

[4 women accused of pepper-spraying Dick's employee, shoplifting]

They load up shopping carts, taking whatever they want, and if someone tries to stop them, the thieves, in an effort to escape, sometimes use pepper spray so powerful it can run off a bear.

It’s a concern for anyone in the vicinity, Matthews police Officer Tim Aycock said.

"Obviously, it can lead to a bad situation for everyone," Aycock said. “We don't want to see that."

Shoplifters at a Best Buy injured employees who tried to stop them in June and July.

Pineville police arrested Aauriel Moore this week. They said she loaded up a cart at the Burlington Coat Factory and punched a loss prevention officer who tried to stop her.

She is believed to be part of a group that uses bear spray during thefts from stores.

Police advise shoppers to get out of the way and call 911 if they encounter a dangerous situation.

In another incident, detectives in Rowan County said shoplifters used pepper spray for bears in a shoplifting job.

The Matthews Police Department is working with stores and organizing shoplifting stings to try and stop some of the crimes. They will also analyze when the thefts are happening and will try to be prepared for them.

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Cox Media Group