Distribution Center Thieves Arrested

Because distribution centers can contain millions of dollars’ worth of merchandise, they can be at high risk for theft.

Late one night, our trained Stealth security operators spotted a few individuals walk through the hole in the fence surrounding a California distribution facility.

The suspects were taking objects from behind the business and carrying them to a spot in the back of the property. Our operator contacted the police. Officers arrived within minutes, intercepted the suspects and placed them under arrest.

Cargo Theft Statistics

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reports there is an estimated $5 billion of cargo theft in Canada every year. Only a fraction of that is ever recovered. What is the most stolen commodity?

Food and beverage products ranked number one. Topping the category are:

• Meats
• Alcohol
• Non-alcoholic beverages

Household items came in second. The most stolen items in this category in order are:

• Cleaning products
• Furniture
• Paper goods
• Major appliances

Three Steps to Help Deter Crime at Distribution Facilities

A plan containing a layered, integrated approach to physical security is important to help keep unauthorized people from entering the property, deter theft and help create a safe environment for employees. The plan should include these three things:

1. Fencing

The first layer in the plan is to secure the perimeter. Installing a fence is an easy and often inexpensive way to help deter and delay unwanted guests. However, as you saw in the video, it doesn’t always keep out determined criminals who can cut though or climb over it.

2. Access Control

By restricting who can access your property, as well as sensitive areas, you can help protect valuable cargo and employees. When you combine gate and access control with a live video surveillance system, trained security operators perform the same functions as an on-site guard, but at a fraction of the cost. A remote security operator can:

• Replace security guards at compound entry/exit points
• Verify driver identification and credential
• Validate correct trailer/tractor with loading dock directions upon entry/exit
• Perform live inspection of tractor/trailer movement to identify damage to equipment or property
• Provide customizable security service protocols and reporting

3. Live Video Monitoring

A live video monitoring solution is a proactive way to help prevent crime before it happens. Trained operators work in conjunction with video analytics to watch surveillance cameras in real time. If they see something suspicious, they can respond immediately by activating an on-site speaker warning and contacting police directly. When you add license plate recognition and long-range cameras, you have a better chance of capturing important information like faces, license plates and vehicle numbers.

In addition to deterring crime, live video surveillance from Stealth Monitoring offers many value-added services including:

• Video review: Search hours of footage for evidence, even during non-monitoring hours.
• Remote maintenance: Identify, diagnose, and repair technical problems remotely.
• Consulting and advisory services: Design a solution based on your needs.
• IT services for remote support: Access IT staff on call 24/7.
• Management reporting: Receive reports with the results of your video surveillance.
• Security Partnership: Work with the police and your staff to optimize security solution.

A layered, integrated approach to security using live video surveillance can help deter cargo theft and control access to the facility. The more layers you have, the more difficult it becomes for thieves. To learn more about cargo theft deterrents, please contact us.