| Updated: 9/15/2012 2:35 am |
Published: 9/14/2012 5:15 pm
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Thieves who think no one is looking better look again.
A Green County store is watching from above and using Facebook to identify shoplifters.
"I didn't hesitate. I was like ‘oh yeah we can do this,'" said Alan Hilsheimer.
The owner of Madalan’s Hallmark in Owasso said in one week thieves stole $800 in merchandise.
One thief even recognized herself when she saw her surveillance picture on Facebook.
Her picture had only been posted for ten hours.
"She called about ten till eight and I said ‘I am sorry I am going to return the merchandise and I will be there before you close,'" said Hilsheimer.
The Facebook posts are quite the buzz in Owasso.
Surveillance video showed shoplifters caught on camera stealing Vera Bradley items.
"This is personal," said Hilsheimer.
Madalan’s sells Vera Bradley exclusively in Owasso.
On Thursday, video showed the man and a woman walk into the store together.
While on his cellphone the man walked over to the Vera Bradley wallets and stuffed several of them in his pants or shirt.
“These are $38 each and he stole four or five of them,” said Hilsheimer.
Video showed the woman who is on her cellphone stealing OSU rings.
Hilsheimer said a total of about $500-$600 in Vera Bradley, OSU merchandise and a Precious Moments figurine were stolen from the store.
Last week another group involving a man and woman stole $250 in collegiate gear in seven minutes.
"Who puts four or five rings on? You're not buying," said Hilsheimer.
The owner doesn’t consider this a petty crime.
"You wouldn't like it if I came into your home and took $800 in your merchandise that you had paid for," said Hilsheimer.
The owner believes these thieves are working in groups.
"They'll get an employee to go in the back and find something for them. While they are gone they'll make their move,” said Hilsheimer.
Thieves can’t hide from their crimes.
"If we catch you, it's going to be on Facebook," said Hilsheimer.
People are watching and sharing. Nearly a hundred comments on the most recent picture of a theft. Owassoims Facebook is sharing the photos too.
Police are also getting notified. While FOX23 News was in the store covering the story an Owasso Police officer showed up to take a report and retrieve the surveillance video.
The thieves think they may be sly but now they know everyone is watching.
"Don't try it again or we'll get you," said Hilsheimer.
The owner said he will be tinting the windows so he can get a clearer picture of the thieves inside the store.
Police said there are groups known to target Vera Bradley and sell the items illegally.
If you have any information about the thieves call Owasso Police at 918-272-2244.
