We all know someone who hides in the shadows of the office and probably has a back seat pocket full of pens and junk stolen from the office, but when it comes to proving that he steals many other things from the workplace, it can be more complicated., not to mention frustrating, especially if you are the boss.
Steps
Step 1. Think about what you are doing
It might seem obvious, but let's be realistic: each of us will probably have stolen something once or twice in our life, often unintentionally or without thinking - the missing pen is the classic example of how a person could take something unintentionally and forget to put it back. own place. Keep in mind that you are going to prove that someone is committing a crime. Try to be sure that this is really a thief.
Step 2. Install a camera to support your thesis
It will help you prove if he steals anything on a regular basis. The best place is usually the one from which they steal things, for example the last shelf of the wardrobe of the office material, or (a classic) the vase of a plant next to the desk. Never putting your name, in case someone finds it, would be very embarrassing. If you're the boss, install it on weekends or at times when others might not catch you doing it; if you are an employee with normal working hours, arrive earlier or stay at work longer, or find an unusual time (without arousing suspicion) so as not to be caught.
Step 3. Make a stakeout
Exactly, just like in the movies. But of course you have to be discreet. If you're in your car taking pictures while he loads stolen items into his car, keep your cell phone handy - if he notices you're stationary, instead of driving home, pretend you're talking on the phone.
Step 4. Find other people who confirm your suspicions
They should have really caught them in the act of stealing and not simply thinking that it could have happened just because the suspect had the same shady gaze as the thieves you see in the movies. Find out if people have seen it before you tell them you are investigating, and be discreet. Write down the date, time and details of the theft with a signature. If you are the office manager, you have access to the data of the ordered goods - if the request has increased in the last period, it means that someone is embezzling the material.
Step 5. If you can't find enough evidence on your own, or if you go beyond the sneaky, (ie if they are stealing data from your computer, or chemicals), you could hire a private investigator
Most have been cops, so look for someone who can provide you with information on their requirements. (Note: if the office is not yours, you probably do not have the right to involve a private investigator in business matters or to have him access the company).
Step 6. When you believe you have enough evidence (supported by videos, photos or written statements confirming your suspicions, or the private investigator has accumulated evidence), pass the information on to your boss (if you are an employee) and / or to the police
Going directly to the police without telling the boss could create resentment, but saying it and receiving a laugh or ignoring you and taking no action could mean that all your work has been lost. If you are the boss, keep in mind that warning the police, before proceeding with the dismissal, is probably best - if your claims are not validated before the dismissal, you could be sued for unfair dismissal.
Advice
- If the photos or videos contain no evidence, get rid of them - you could be breaking privacy laws or even being accused of 'stalking'.
- Don't take pictures with children - you will run into serious trouble.
- Don't stalk the person unless you REALLY have to, and you are certain you are in no danger.
- Installing a video camera or microphone can be a great idea, but doing something ingenious, like putting a small sticker inside a stapler, for example, will allow you to identify the exact object and show irrefutable evidence, especially if you go to the police and say 'I have the photos, but I can also recognize the stolen goods - if you go to his house or search his car, you will find x, y and z with a blue sticker inside'. Be careful, though - it may seem like you put things AT HOME rather than at work.
Warnings
- If you suspect someone is stealing drugs (if you work in a hospital for example), tell your supervisor and make sure they notify the police ASAP. It is not necessary for you to say the name of the culprit, just say that some drugs are missing and you are worried.
- Don't break any laws. Getting into your home or car without authorization is ALWAYS very serious. Try to be discreet.
- Paranoia is a bad story. If all the evidence tells you he's not stealing, then it might not be true. But instinct is always right, so keep an open mind.
- Never falsify evidence - it's worse than defamation.
- Never tell anyone what you are doing. If you tell your coworkers (yours or yours) you will be in trouble if they report it to the suspect or your boss.
- Spreading news without substantiated evidence is called 'defamation' - you could get your criminal record if you don't pay attention. Before you accuse someone, you must always have proof.
