Ohio judge orders shoplifters to wear ‘I’m a thief’ T-shirts during community service

Ohio judge orders shoplifters to wear T-shirts

WAUSEON, Ohio — A northwest Ohio judge has added neon green T-shirts to his sentencing repertoire. Western District Court Judge Jeff Robinson in Fulton County is requiring some defendants to wear shirts announcing “I’m a thief” while they perform court-ordered community service.

The judge said public punishment can serve as a deterrent, especially during tough economic times when theft crimes seem to rise.

The shirts have mainly been ordered for convicted shoplifters. At least one defendant offered to pay a stiffer fine instead.

Information from: The Blade, www.toledoblade.com/