Member-only story
I could have gotten away with shoplifting
Are we too trusting of those who look like us?
While running errands on a Sunday afternoon, I stopped at the local grocery store. Quickly finding what I needed, I proceeded to the self-checkout kiosks.
It took less than 30 seconds to scan my items, insert my payment card, and grab the receipt. With only two items, I did not bother to bag them, choosing to carry one in each hand. Passing by the check-out attendant, I exited the store, happy to get away from the crowd and be outside again.
Suddenly, a male voice called out “Sir! Excuse me…sir!” I turned around to face the checkout attendant, who had followed me out of the store.
Glancing at the two items in my hands, he asked, “Did you pay for those?”
I froze, quickly realizing what he was implying. I calmly responded, “Yes, I paid for them. I have the receipt in my pocket. Do you want to see it?”
He peered at me quizzically and said, “No, that’s okay.” He then turned and went back into the store.
I walked to my car a bit relieved, but with several questions on my mind.
Why did he give me the benefit of a doubt? Why did he not ask to see my receipt? I would have been happy to show it to him.
