Shoplifting down, but not out at Grand Forks Published July 16, 2009 By 090270 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- High-tech Electronic Article Surveillance systems, eagle-eyed closed circuit television cameras and an aggressive youth shoplifting awareness campaign helped take "a bite out of crime" at Grand Forks AFB's base exchange. The Army & Air Force Exchange Service, which has contributed more than $2.4 billion to Air Force Services and Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs in the past 10 years, continues to focus its efforts on reducing theft to maximize the investment authorized shoppers make in their exchange benefit. "This isn't just about a stolen video game or a purse leaving the premise without someone paying," said the BX's Pat Fields . "AAFES' mission to generate earnings in support of MWR activities makes Loss Prevention a quality of life issue for the entire Grand Forks community. People who steal from the exchange do more than harm themselves; they directly impact MWR'S ability to complete their mission." If shoplifting is suspected, BX Loss Prevention associates turn the issue over to local law enforcement. In addition to possible disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution, the Federal Claims Collection Act, which began March 1, 2002, allows AAFES to enact a flat, administrative cost (Civil Recovery) of $200. There may be further fees, in addition to the Civil Recovery Program, depending on the condition of the stolen merchandise.