Sydney Mines thrift store posts security videos of thieves on social media
Video cameras show people loading donated items into newer model vehicles
A Sydney Mines, N.S., charity store has been targeted by thieves stealing its clothing and household donations.
Nora's New to You Thrift Store has had to install video cameras and security lights to try to combat thefts, says manager Ellen Keagan.
It's difficult to understand what motivates people to steal from the store, she said.
"We're a non-profit agency, we're a vocational centre for adults with disabilities. The proceeds go to Haley Street Centre, which operates Nora's."
Catching people in the act
It's the second time this month a local non-profit agency has spoken out about being the victim of crime. Last week, the Glace Bay Food Bank lost a big section of its vegetable garden to vandals.
Nora's even lost its first security system to theft when the cameras and lights were stolen off the side of the building, Keagan said.
The new security video and light system is now tucked up under the building's eaves.
The security video has been catching people in the act of stealing bags out of the donation bin, Keagan said. A recent video recording shows the culprits driving up in newer model cars and SUVs.
Posting images on social media
The store has taken the unusual step of posting the videos on social media. A Facebook post on the store's page was viewed 8,000 times.
"It's a last resort," Keagan said.
"Over the last month, we've noticed an increase in traffic at night, also by day. Items we notice in our wooden bin at closing, the next morning appear to be missing."
Nora's is open between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The store manager was incredulous when she first saw the images. One video shows a woman coming up to the building and taking items clearly meant for the charity store. She makes three trips with her arms full of items.
"I had to rewind the video and I got my co-workers and said, 'Could you come and check this?' Did she put that there or did she take it from there? Am I seeing this? Is this actually happening?'" Keagan said.
With files from Gary Mansfield