They're fucked and don't even get to keep the stolen goods!. There are approximately 27 million active shoplifters in our nation today. American retailers lose $45 billion annually to theft. In the business of retail, there are two separate but equally important parties. The Shoplyfter that tries to steal the merchandise, and the loss prevention officer who stands in their way. Once caught, these officers need to make sure these delinquents never steal again by any means necessary. These are their stories..