Opti
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Post by Opti on Nov 28, 2021 9:45:05 GMT -5
www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/smash-and-grab-thieves-attack-stores-around-the-country-california-security-guard-shot-dead-as-crime-rages/ar-AARe0Ee?ocid=msedgntpSmash-and-grab looters targeted stores across the country ahead of Thanksgiving and over Black Friday weekend, robbing stores of thousands of dollars in merchandise and even leaving one California security guard dead as he tried to protect a news crew that was reporting on the crimes. "We tried to stop them," Home Depot employee Luis Romo told FOX 11 of a "flash mob" targeting the store in Lakewood, California, on Black Friday. "We closed the front entrance and they put their sledgehammers up and whoever got in the way, they were going to hurt them."Across the board, retailers are getting more concerned with this growing trend. … It is definitely a tough problem to solve, given the organized nature and number of people involved in many of the incidents," Chris Walton, a former Target executive who co-leads retail blog and podcast Omni Talk, said of the incidents, according to Star Tribune. The most tragic incident unfolded in California, when an Oakland security guard was fatally shot during an armed robbery while protecting a news crew covering a previous smash-and-grab theft.How do you feel about this? What do you think can be done?
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pulmonarymd
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Post by pulmonarymd on Nov 28, 2021 9:52:37 GMT -5
Maybe they can call Kyle Rittenhouse
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 28, 2021 10:17:20 GMT -5
What is the root cause? I see it as a manifestation of increasing income and wealth inequality. If you don't have and can't earn, take. I see two possible solutions. Attack the root cause or attack the looters. And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody Outside of a small circle of friends.
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tractor
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Post by tractor on Nov 28, 2021 10:33:01 GMT -5
I heard one report that these looting attacks are tied to organized crime. They go in get as much as they can, then sell on the block market. It's an easy plan, limited police presence, and an abundance of places to sell such as Craigslist, FB marketplace, etc.
Your chances of getting caught are low and it's "easy" money. It will be interesting to see what happens when others in the store start fighting/shooting back...
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Tennesseer
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Post by Tennesseer on Nov 28, 2021 11:11:45 GMT -5
Block all parking in front of high-end stores.
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NoNamePerson
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Post by NoNamePerson on Nov 28, 2021 11:26:36 GMT -5
I am going to join a flash and grab group. I have so much less than a lot of people so why not. It's the American way/excuse.
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busymom
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Post by busymom on Nov 28, 2021 11:29:32 GMT -5
Sheesh! We just had that happen in the metropolitan area here. Twice in a day. I can't even imagine being an employee in one of those stores. Scary! Not that I'd try & stop them, but who knows what they'd do to employees while they try & grab the high-end merchandise.
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Opti
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Post by Opti on Nov 28, 2021 11:49:17 GMT -5
Sheesh! We just had that happen in the metropolitan area here. Twice in a day. I can't even imagine being an employee in one of those stores. Scary! Not that I'd try & stop them, but who knows what they'd do to employees while they try & grab the high-end merchandise. It is scary. Parts of California have had issues in the past at places like Walgreens, so much so, that I think 4 stores have closed. I do think it is organized crime, but by who and how?
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 28, 2021 12:22:40 GMT -5
I should read more on exactly what is going on. Tennesseer mentioned "high end" and Opti mentioned "Walgreens". The second reminds me of when a couple of lifetimes ago I was living in Seattle and teaching young teen criminals. One of the things they would do is get a group to "bum rush" a convenience store for weekend snack/beer needs. It was just word of mouth organized. This was before cell phones. With those, it seems like minded individuals could be recruited for attacks even more easily.
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Opti
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Post by Opti on Nov 28, 2021 12:43:38 GMT -5
Bills, I don't know. The articles thus far have been light on the details. Once the police start catching some of them we should know more. The Walgreens stuff is closer to what you mention. These flash mob robberies seem to involve multiple people, multiple cars, and usually targeting higher end stores although one was a Home Depot.
They could be recruited through social media groups.
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 28, 2021 12:46:11 GMT -5
Okay, one thing I read is stories are calling places like Nordstroms as high end. I guess they are compared to Walmart but not so much compared to Tiffany's. That is what confused me.
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 28, 2021 12:54:09 GMT -5
... an incident at a Canada Goose store off Chicago's Magnificent Mile, where robbers shattered a window using a rock and stole several coats, NBC5 Chicago reported. link Hell, that is one for me and one as a Christmas present for a cousin numbers, not major crime.
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Opti
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Post by Opti on Nov 28, 2021 13:20:15 GMT -5
Okay, one thing I read is stories are calling places like Nordstroms as high end. I guess they are compared to Walmart but not so much compared to Tiffany's. That is what confused me. Like wealth, there are scales, but yes I see Nordstroms as a high end department store. Neiman Marcus above them. Tiffany's is a jewelry boutique IMO.
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 28, 2021 13:41:25 GMT -5
If there were five of each size with the same design on the rack where I broke in, I am selling them out of my trunk and not visiting my fence. And I certainly don't want to hear, "Shit man, I can shoplift one of those from Walmart any time I want" when I pop the trunk. I am back to thought expressed in reply #2. This is have not getting themselves some.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 28, 2021 18:39:56 GMT -5
What is the root cause? I see it as a manifestation of increasing income and wealth inequality. If you don't have and can't earn, take. I see two possible solutions. Attack the root cause or attack the looters. And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody Outside of a small circle of friends. This reminds me of a rap song “My Moment”. The hook says… “Tired of living day to day, like everything’s alright Every night just one thing on my mind I’m just waiting on my moment” Some of the lyrics… ”If I don’t grind, I don’t shine, If I don’t shine, I don’t eat, If I don’t eat, Imma starve If Imma starve Imma pull this heat…. On all y’all rich ass $!##@& ’Cuz…. if I don’t make no money $!##@ I’m gon take your money” The song is about wanting more and hustling and grinding to get it, working for it and hoping things get better and the moment finally comes when you’re winning. I don’t have criminal tendencies, but the song has always struck a chord with me, because there have been times I felt just like the hook describes. As far as the other lyrics I quoted, they are the only ones I know by heart besides the hook. I understand it even though I’m not the kind of person to be out robbing people. But I’ve also never been completely assed out, hungry and desperate. I will say this though, when my ex-husband and I split and I was trying to find a job after being a SAHM, looking at 2 little people that were depending on me to eat and survive….. if I absolutely could not find a job or a legit way to generate some income, I would’ve done some less than okay things if I saw no other way. A young attractive woman has options, if you know what I mean. I feel like I probably shouldn’t say that here, but it’s the truth. Fortunately, I didn’t have to entertain any strange ideas. I found a job. And when I got frustrated and started feeling kind of hopeless because I wasn’t making much money, even though I worked extra hours in other departments, I found another job that paid more money. All that to say, I do believe that when people can’t find a way to have the basic human necessities for themselves, let alone a family, there’s a chance they might decide that acting on some strange (criminal) ideas is worth the risk. People who have never felt anything close to hopeless about being able to survive and provide, probably won’t get it. And before I get flamed, let me emphasize that I am NOT saying that becoming a criminal is the way to go.
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busymom
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Post by busymom on Nov 28, 2021 20:32:20 GMT -5
What is the root cause? I see it as a manifestation of increasing income and wealth inequality. If you don't have and can't earn, take. I see two possible solutions. Attack the root cause or attack the looters. And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody Outside of a small circle of friends. My vote goes to dealing with the root cause. Wealth inequality. Of course, there are others, like the family of Kyle Rittenhouse, who'd just rather go on the attack against any perceived "trouble-makers", without a trial.
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djAdvocate
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Post by djAdvocate on Nov 28, 2021 22:39:53 GMT -5
I am going to join a flash and grab group. I have so much less than a lot of people so why not. It's the American way/excuse. I know you were being sarcastic, but it does make sense to me. it is a rational response.
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djAdvocate
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Post by djAdvocate on Nov 28, 2021 22:46:39 GMT -5
the social contract is broken, and we are asking black folks & the poor to fix it.
I hope everyone gets how self centered that sounds. self serving, as well.
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Tiny
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Post by Tiny on Nov 28, 2021 23:21:43 GMT -5
What is the root cause? I see it as a manifestation of increasing income and wealth inequality. If you don't have and can't earn, take. I see two possible solutions. Attack the root cause or attack the looters. And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody Outside of a small circle of friends. I also see inequality and the hopelessness of ever getting out of it or making it or getting ahead to be the root cause. When you don't see a way out - why not come out fighting (or looting). I think a lot of Americans see or hear the word "inequality" and think - "there is no 'inequality' - why don't they just get a job! or move! or their loser friends/family/spouse! If they would just stop wanting to live the life they are living they wouldn't have a problem. ". Well, that's what I hear from family members when ever the 'inequality' thing comes up.
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djAdvocate
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Post by djAdvocate on Nov 29, 2021 1:36:44 GMT -5
it can't even be said that there is no inequality for white folks. there are poor whites that are in the same position- they are systemically disadvantaged. that doesn't mean they can't succeed. it means their odds of success are MUCH lower.
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bean29
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Post by bean29 on Nov 29, 2021 12:09:19 GMT -5
At a party recently a well off friend told us he buys his Razors on E-bay for a fraction of what he would pay at Walgreens. He said they often come with the tags on from stores like Walgreens, so he knows they were Stolen.
You are in the dark ages if you think this stuff is sold out of someone's trunk.
As an example, Go to Facebook Markteplace and search for Sketchers - I am willing to bet that a lot of what is listed is stolen. They go for about 30-$35/pair and if purchased at DSW they would probably be $50-60. I have not purchased any as my feet are not a consistent size. I stick to buying at stores like Macys/DSW/Zappos- it may cost more, but if they don't fit I can return them. I also still have enough morals left that I don't want to be a part of the culture that condones stealing by buying stolen goods.
I am a little wary of even going to the shopping malls after hearing of the recent smash and burn incidents. Idk if I can manage to order more online this year or not.
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Tennesseer
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Post by Tennesseer on Nov 29, 2021 12:17:49 GMT -5
Sell a smash-and-grab 'Like New' Versace handbag on EBay and let the bidding begin.
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Nov 29, 2021 14:56:02 GMT -5
At a party recently a well off friend told us he buys his Razors on E-bay for a fraction of what he would pay at Walgreens. He said they often come with the tags on from stores like Walgreens, so he knows they were Stolen. You are in the dark ages if you think this stuff is sold out of someone's trunk. As an example, Go to Facebook Markteplace and search for Sketchers - I am willing to bet that a lot of what is listed is stolen. They go for about 30-$35/pair and if purchased at DSW they would probably be $50-60. I have not purchased any as my feet are not a consistent size. I stick to buying at stores like Macys/DSW/Zappos- it may cost more, but if they don't fit I can return them. I also still have enough morals left that I don't want to be a part of the culture that condones stealing by buying stolen goods. I am a little wary of even going to the shopping malls after hearing of the recent smash and burn incidents. Idk if I can manage to order more online this year or not. I can see setting up a supply chain with an insider to illicitly obtain and sell items. I am not seeing smash and grab as a reliable source for products to market.
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Tennesseer
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Post by Tennesseer on Nov 29, 2021 16:41:19 GMT -5
At a party recently a well off friend told us he buys his Razors on E-bay for a fraction of what he would pay at Walgreens. He said they often come with the tags on from stores like Walgreens, so he knows they were Stolen. You are in the dark ages if you think this stuff is sold out of someone's trunk. As an example, Go to Facebook Markteplace and search for Sketchers - I am willing to bet that a lot of what is listed is stolen. They go for about 30-$35/pair and if purchased at DSW they would probably be $50-60. I have not purchased any as my feet are not a consistent size. I stick to buying at stores like Macys/DSW/Zappos- it may cost more, but if they don't fit I can return them. I also still have enough morals left that I don't want to be a part of the culture that condones stealing by buying stolen goods. I am a little wary of even going to the shopping malls after hearing of the recent smash and burn incidents. Idk if I can manage to order more online this year or not. I can see setting up a supply chain with an insider to illicitly obtain and sell items. I am not seeing smash and grab as a reliable source for products to market. If you need a fast $100 it is.
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djAdvocate
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Post by djAdvocate on Dec 1, 2021 0:25:16 GMT -5
surprised I only got one "like" for post 16. I think it is one of the most powerful statements on BLM I have ever heard. moves me nearly to tears every time I watch it.
if others feel differently, I would like to know why.
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billisonboard
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Post by billisonboard on Dec 1, 2021 1:04:11 GMT -5
surprised I only got one "like" for post 16. I think it is one of the most powerful statements on BLM I have ever heard. moves me nearly to tears every time I watch it. if others feel differently, I would like to know why. Actually didn't watch it when you first posted it. I like to read, not watch, for information. Did watch it tonight. Thought the distinction between rioters and looters became blurred. The increasing level of emotion didn't help. Also doesn't seem on topic for this thread.
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Tennesseer
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Post by Tennesseer on Dec 1, 2021 12:44:51 GMT -5
surprised I only got one "like" for post 16. I think it is one of the most powerful statements on BLM I have ever heard. moves me nearly to tears every time I watch it. if others feel differently, I would like to know why. I watched most of the video and then stopped. Just because A can afford to purchase a Samsung - 60" Class Q60A Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV doesn't mean B who cannot afford a Samsung - 60" Class Q60A Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV and is frustrated because he can't gets a pass after smashing and grabbing a Samsung - 60" Class Q60A Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV.
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bean29
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Post by bean29 on Dec 1, 2021 13:00:44 GMT -5
surprised I only got one "like" for post 16. I think it is one of the most powerful statements on BLM I have ever heard. moves me nearly to tears every time I watch it. if others feel differently, I would like to know why. Actually didn't watch it when you first posted it. I like to read, not watch, for information. Did watch it tonight. Thought the distinction between rioters and looters became blurred. The increasing level of emotion didn't help. Also doesn't seem on topic for this thread. I hadn't listened to it either, I have had issues with video in the past, so I don't always listen to them. I also prefer to read things. I thought she made some very good points, but it is an exaggeration to say we burn or take away anything minorities earn. I don't think it is quite an equal footing, but we have not taken away anything minorities manage to build up. I do hope wealth inequality will be addressed, but our political system is broken and the wealthy have all the power, so it will not get better. Expect it to get worse.
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Miss Tequila
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Post by Miss Tequila on Dec 1, 2021 13:34:58 GMT -5
Actually didn't watch it when you first posted it. I like to read, not watch, for information. Did watch it tonight. Thought the distinction between rioters and looters became blurred. The increasing level of emotion didn't help. Also doesn't seem on topic for this thread. I hadn't listened to it either, I have had issues with video in the past, so I don't always listen to them. I also prefer to read things. I thought she made some very good points, but it is an exaggeration to say we burn or take away anything minorities earn. I don't think it is quite an equal footing, but we have not taken away anything minorities manage to build up. I do hope wealth inequality will be addressed, but our political system is broken and the wealthy have all the power, so it will not get better. Expect it to get worse. But how much of our wealth inequality is due to choices that we make? Whites and Asians both have a poverty rate of 7.3% while Blacks have a poverty rate of 18.8% and Hispanics have a poverty rate of 15.7%. At first glance, it sounds like we definitely have an issue. But, then I look at % of single parent families by race. 15% of Asian families and 24% of white families are single parent families. Counter that with a whopping 64% of Black families are headed by single parents. Single parents are much more likely to live in poverty than a family with both parents. Why do we want to blame whites for black poverty but never take a look at the choices the black population makes that will keep them in poverty? I'm sure I will be accused of being racist because of the above comments, but I know that I lead a fairly middle class (low middle class) until my parents divorced. My mom and I were thrust into poverty overnight. Imagine the impact this has on the black community with such a large % of families being run by a single parent.
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azucena
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Post by azucena on Dec 1, 2021 13:50:30 GMT -5
Miss T - have you ever read about generational trauma? I think it explains a lot about why African American families continue to experience poverty. Slavery must top the trauma leader board. Then, you have segregation, continued racial inequality, and police shootings - trauma on top of trauma on top of trauma.
A person starting life with this type of embedded trauma cannot make good choices even if they are right in front of them.
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