Stopping Shoplifting? Researchers at UF Lab Think Like a Shoplifter To Deter, Detect Costly Crime

Dr. Read Hayes, a criminologist and research scientist at the University of Florida’s Wertheim College of Engineering FLEX (Florida Engineering Experiment Station), is finding new ways to deter shoplifters. Dr. Hayes directs the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), an active community of researchers, retailers, law enforcement and more working towards a safer world for shoppers and businesses.

Much of the research conducted by Dr. Hayes is done in the UF SaferPlaces Lab, located at UF Innovate at the Hub. This cutting-edge R&D space is aimed at finding ways to keep shoppers safe and prevent loss. From AI to threat detection, the lab is equipped with the latest in anti-theft technology.

This research is bolstered by the partnerships Dr. Hayes has established within the retail space, bringing in major companies like Target, Dollar General, Walmart and more to give insight into the current impact of theft on the retail sector and help test new anti-theft technology.

Due to theft, many retailers are starting to pull more expensive items from shelves or just simply closing up shop. As a result, millions of Americans who rely on their local store for goods are left without the ability to buy them. Through this research, Dr. Hayes hopes to find innovative ways to reduce loss and help physical retailers thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Watch more on WJXT: Stopping Shoplifting? Researchers at UF Lab Think Like a Shoplifter To Deter, Detect Costly Crime.