Shoplifting is a typical day to day unfortunate occurrence in the American economy (Greggo & Kresevich, 2010 ) . Both mens rea and actus reus should be proven before one can be successfully convicted for this crime. The men rea required could be inferred from the fact that the accused concealed the item and did not present it at the pay point. Such intentions may be fueled by economic needs (Nemeth, 2018) . In proving the actus reus , the alleging party must prove that the accused picked the wristwatches using his own hands. Other elements that may prove actus reus include the hurriedness with which the shoplifter left the premises and the concealing of the item in question, among others.
What specific laws are broken by this crime?
Shoplifting constitutes petty theft. Every state has its laws governing retail thefts. As such, this crime first breaks the penal code provisions on theft and, secondly, contravenes the state law that is applied to the shoplifting crime.
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Steps on how I would investigate this crime
The first step would be the gathering of evidence. This step may involve the review of CCTV footage. This should be done logically and systematically. The second step may include interviewing the suspect. Indeed, the suspect's explanation may also constitute evidence (Nemeth, 2019). The third step will involve making decisions under the reliance of obtained evidence, which shall include designating and producing pieces of evidence needed for a successful conviction.
Specify what evidence you would need to prove the offender committed the crime
Some of the critical evidence I will need include eyewitnesses, CCTV footage, and exhibits of the stolen product if available. This evidence will primarily satisfy the actus reus part of the crime. On the other hand, I will also need proof that points to the intention. Specifically, the mens rea may be obtained through, which suspects own confession during the interview or inferred from their actions.
References
Greggo, A., & Kresevich, M. (2010). Retail security and loss prevention solutions . CRC Press.
Nemeth, C.P. (2019). Private security and the investigative process ( 4th ed.). CRC
Nemeth, C. P. (2018). Private security and the law. Private Security , 143-192.
