Recap from the June 25 Shoplifting Prevention Workshop with SPD

On June 25, downtown Spokane business owners, managers, and hospitality professionals gathered at the Central Library for a hands-on workshop focused on reducing retail theft and improving in-store safety. Hosted by the Downtown Spokane Partnership and led by Officer Brian Eckersley, Retail Theft Prevention Specialist with the Spokane Police Department, the session offered both practical tools and community-driven solutions to one of downtown’s most pressing issues.

Retail theft continues to impact local businesses—whether through lost product, safety concerns for staff, or increased operating costs. The workshop was designed to empower business owners with clear steps to protect their stores, report incidents effectively, and collaborate more closely with local law enforcement.

With attendees representing a wide range of downtown sectors—from retail and restaurants to property management—this workshop served as both a training and a reminder that downtown Spokane is stronger when it works together.

Key Takeaways from Officer Eckersley

Officer Eckersley, who works closely with SPD’s retail theft team, shared real-world examples and current trends specific to Spokane. Here’s what attendees learned:

• It’s OK to Ask Someone to Leave: If someone is hanging around your business and not showing intent to shop, you have the right to ask them to leave. Creating a safe and respectful environment includes setting boundaries.
• Photos & Video Make a Difference: Even if your footage is grainy or partial, document everything. Save the files, and always include them when you submit a police report. Visual evidence helps SPD identify repeat offenders and build stronger cases.
• File a Report Every Time: Don’t assume a small theft isn’t worth reporting. Every report helps SPD track patterns and build case histories. Over time, this information contributes to escalating charges against chronic offenders.
• Call 911 for Active Theft: If someone is shoplifting or has just left your store, call 911 immediately. Timely reports improve SPD’s ability to respond and protect both your business and others nearby.

What’s Next
The Downtown Spokane Partnership is committed to continuing this dialogue and providing tools that help local businesses thrive. If you couldn’t attend, or if you’d like follow-up resources—including reporting guides, signage templates, or connections to SPD’s business liaison—please reach out.

Contact: info@downtownspokane.org

Together, we can reduce theft, increase safety, and make downtown Spokane a stronger place to do business.