Illinois Walmart & Target Stores Lock Up Underwear and Socks

As a part of a new shoplifting crackdown, Walmart and Target stores are locking up some new items all around the country - including in Illinois.

Tons of retail stores have started securing their merchandise to prevent further theft. From beauty products, to hygiene, to baby formula, to jewelry, there are a few more items we'll start seeing behind plexiglass in 2024.

Read More: 11 Most Stolen Items At Walmart In Illinois

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It's typical to see high-ticketed items like electronics or video games behind lock and key, but theft is apparently so bad that Walmart and Target stores are locking up underwear and socks?

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Why Are Walmart & Target Stores Locking Up These Products?

Customers never thought they'd see the underwear and sock aisles under lockdown.

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Sometimes life throws some curveballs and shoplifting might seem like the only solution. Remember, in Illinois it can become a felony if you steal.

"Stealing items valued at $500 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, but the charges and penalties increase as the value of the stolen items increases. Theft of items valued at $500 to $10,000 is a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison." [jaldrichlaw]

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What's the deal, though? Why are underwear and socks next on the list?

Target said it is working to prevent theft and in a statement said "on a limited basis, we employ theft deterrent merchandising strategies, such as locking cases, for categories that are prone to theft." [nbcbayarea]

Don't be surprised if you started seeing it already at your favorite big box stores in Illinois - sadly, it's only the start of a huge headache and inconvenience.

I always get anxiety when I'm at the store and have to page for assistance to unlock an item. The absolute worst is when it pages an employee over the loud speaker and nobody comes for 10 minutes to help. You feel me?

The 11 Most Stolen Items From Walmart Stores In Illinois

With over $2 billion worth of goods stolen from retailers in Illinois every year, theft is no stranger to this state - that includes Walmart. Their famous tagline, "Save Money. Live Better." was taken pretty literally by shoppers- sorry, shoplifters. Here's what Walmart says are stolen the most in their stores.

Gallery Credit: Emily