CVS has revealed that crime is the main reason for store closures in Washington D.C., marking the first time the company has openly admitted to this issue. The announcement comes after the arrest of 28-year-old Emmanual Hart, who allegedly stole nearly $8,000 worth of merchandise from two CVS locations in the area. Hart is accused of stealing from the stores over 20 times between June and July.
The thefts have prompted other CVS locations in the region to take action, with some stores clearing shelves of certain items and others locking up popular products like drinks. This increase in crime has caused several stores within the district to close, according to a representative of CVS who spoke before a judge in July.
Shoppers and residents in the area have expressed their concern over the rampant theft, with one shopper stating that people walking in and taking whatever they want is “ridiculous.” Another resident mentioned that this has been happening quite a few times in the area.
FOX 5 reached out to CVS for further comment but did not receive an immediate response. The company’s acknowledgment of crime as the reason behind the closures sheds light on the challenges faced by retailers in urban areas dealing with theft and security issues.
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