CVS Shoplifting Policy Explained in Detail: Know What Would Happen

The CVS Shoplifting Policy

CVS stores utilize several security measures, including asset protection staff, video monitoring, anti-theft tags, and secured shelving, to prevent and detect shoplifting, corporate customer service representatives and CVS store associates said.

Due to security concerns, CVS’ corporate customer service representatives and store associates were unable to provide much information about CVS’ loss prevention measures. For more insight into the role of its asset protection staff, we contacted CVS’ recruiting department.

Asset Protection Staff

The role of an asset protection employee at CVS varies somewhat by location and level.

• Leaders and managers will create and implement anti-theft strategies for their assigned stores. While these employees are not on-site at CVS stores at all times, they do conduct site visits, investigate incidents, and work with local law enforcement when necessary.
• Coordinators are the daily field operators for loss prevention at CVS. These employees wear a CVS uniform and monitor for potential theft incidents. They also provide customer service on the sales floor, assist with security tagging, and help customers access locked items. Coordinators work closely with store managers, who are responsible for implementing loss prevention procedures, and are often assigned to more than one store so they are able to identify shoplifting trends in their district.

Anti-Theft Devices and Monitoring

In addition to employing asset protection staff, CVS store associates also monitor for theft. And stores are equipped with security cameras. Monitoring security cameras is one of the job functions of the store manager.

For high-risk categories and products, CVS uses additional anti-theft tools like security tags and locked shelving.

CVS also monitors for theft by employees. Store managers and asset protection staff conduct cash verifications, employee bag checks, and investigations of potential internal thefts.

Suspect Apprehension

Asset protection coordinators do not apprehend suspects, according to the official job description and CVS’ recruiting department. For the safety of its employees and customers, CVS prohibits employees from physically confronting or chasing those suspected of shoplifting. They can, however, follow and/or approach suspects inside the store. The store manager has the final say on how to proceed with a shoplifting suspect.

Arrest and Prosecution

If you are caught stealing from CVS and the store manager decides to contact local law enforcement, officials will follow state guidelines regarding theft. Our article on asset protection at Target has more information about theft laws, fines, and jail time. Potential charges include misdemeanor or felony larceny (depending on the value of the stolen merchandise) and possession of stolen property. You can also be ordered to not visit the store again.

More Information

For more information on shoplifting policies, see our articles detailing the shoplifting policy at Lowe’s and The Home Depot’s shoplifting policy.