How Should Companies Handle Repeated Workplace Theft Caught on Camera?

Addressing Misconduct in the Workplace

Actions for misconduct, such as not reporting or stealing, are serious breaches of company policy. In this case, the individual was caught on camera committing theft and was immediately instructed to resign upon returning the stolen material, likely to circumvent harsher consequences. However, the individual re-entered the premises on a weekly holiday and proceeded to take more material from the company without the knowledge of security, resulting in another instance of theft being captured on camera.

Given the repeated misconduct and blatant disregard for company policies, it is imperative to take decisive action against this individual. Appropriate steps may include initiating a thorough investigation into the extent of the theft, documenting all evidence, and proceeding with disciplinary measures such as termination of employment. Additionally, security protocols should be reviewed and strengthened to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Handling Employee Misconduct and Theft

First of all, make a rule that whenever an employee is terminated, suspended pending inquiry, or has their services dispensed with due to any disciplinary action, ensure that you inform all those concerned in their department or section as well as security. If your organization is large, please provide a recent color photograph of the delinquent employee to the security officer-in-charge. These steps will surely help prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

Secondly, the matter should have been reported to the nearest police station at the occurrence of the first theft incident itself, as theft is a major misconduct in any industry. The repetition of theft within a week clearly indicates that this person has a criminal mindset and is potentially dangerous. I suggest not delaying any further and filing a police case along with the evidence (CDs of both theft incidents downloaded from the system).

Regards,
Rakesh Srivastav