COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The holiday season means stores are packed and for many retailers, an increase in shoplifting.
Local law enforcement said 2009 has been a record-setting year for shoplifting with almost 3,000 cases and counting.
The cases aren't just teenagers committing petty theft, but serial shoplifters stealing hundreds and thousands of dollars in merchandise, NBC 4's Marcus Thorpe reported.
Assistant City Prosecutor Bill Hedrick logged more than 2,700 complaints in 2008.
"There is no honor among thieves and no honor when they are stopped," Hedrick said.
Those who are caught don't stop, returning to the same behavior -- including suspects like Nelson Ward, who prosecutors said was caught 44 times.
"It's not a sickness. They are thieves," Hedrick said.
Prosecutors said Mark McNeal was caught on surveillance helping himself to electronic equipment.
Prosecutors also said Richard Walker was caught stealing liquor and shoes.
"This is just from two days and Christmas will be a high point for stealing," Hedrick said.
How can people offend repeatedly? Hedrick said they believe the risk is worth the reward.
"(The maximum) you can get for theft is misdemeanor, six months in jail. Some states have federal enhancements so it may become a felony. Ohio does not have that," Hedrick said.
Hedrick said he tries to alert judges with a list of repeat offenders.
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