ROSENBERG – People arrested for shoplifting in Rosenberg are now becoming internet stars thanks to the police department's newest strategy to target theft.
Rosenberg police said retail growth in the city has created more opportunities for thieves, so now they're using social media to tackle the issue.
The list is called the "Rosenberg's Most Unwanted Shoplifters," and the first batch of the accused were arrested within the last two weeks.
Pictures are posted to Facebook and Twitter as part of a strategy Lt. Aaron Slater likens to casting a net.
"That net says a few things," said Lt. Slater. "One says it's going to inform the public about who is in our backyard. And number two, it sends a message to the criminal element. If you're going to commit crimes, people are going to know about it."
One of the first people to make the list was Monte Martin. He was arrested for allegedly stealing several handgun magazines and knives from the Academy Sports store in the Brazos Town Center. In fact, three of the first four shoplifters are accused of stealing from the same store.
The list is getting a positive response from Rosenberg residents.
The police department said there have been 88 shoplifting arrests to date in Rosenberg, and the list is meant to inform everyone, including loss prevention officers, who to look out for.
"As a police agency, we really do take a zero tolerance approach," said Lt. Slater. "If you're going to go in and steal within the stores and hardworking businesses, you will most likely go to jail."
Police said they plan to post a new list of the most unwanted shoplifters each week.
