Wisconsin Lawmaker Refers to Shoplifters as “Difficult Customers” During Committee Meeting

A Wisconsin lawmaker referred to an uncooperative shoplifter as a 'difficult customer' during a recent committee meeting.

The comments were made during a Human Resources Committee Meeting focused on filling two police officer vacancies in the City of Superior. These remarks were made as cities across the U.S. are addressing challenges related to organized shoplifting rings.

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City Councilor Jenny Kiks.ádi Van Sickle from District 2 in Superior made the comments while discussing the job openings. Van Sickle said, "We cannot prioritize shoplifting, which is all but a victimless crime. While kids can't cross the street."

The discussion occurred as councilors and the Police Chief talked about staffing issues, the need for additional officers, and the decisions officers face daily.

Chief Winterscheidt brought up a scenario involving an "uncooperative shoplifter at Walmart who's fighting with the loss prevention person," while also addressing the challenge of responding to another call, such as a speeding violation, at the same time.

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Van Sickle, who is married to Superior Mayor Jim Paine, added, "I mean, if it were up to me, I wouldn't have our officers at Walmart at all. I don't think the City of Superior should be acting as their private security."

Continuing the discussion, Van Sickle remarked, "I don't know if it's worth an officer making 30 something dollars an hour to go teach somebody how to deal with a difficult customer."

Van Sickle emphasized the importance of allocating resources to pedestrian safety around Superior, stating, "I don't want pedestrian safety, safe routes for school people getting mowed down in crosswalks to feel optional."

Like many police departments, Superior Police are dealing with staffing shortages, which was also mentioned by Chief Winterscheidt. "Right now, our staffing is so limited that we are staffing at minimums," he said.

In the end, Van Sickle and Chief Winterscheidt agreed to update the job description, which will be reviewed at the next meeting on October 21st.