When it comes to shoplifting the problem is the law, not the cops. In many places there is, in effect, no legal penalty for shoplifting even if "caught". Here in New York shoplifters are not prosecuted. Even if "arrested" they are issued a desk appearance ticket and are back at the same store in hours to shoplift some more.
Just pointing out that’s not a problem with the law, it’s a problem with enforcement policies (aka select free passes on laws) in most cases enacted by fiat of elected officials.
