[Domandred]

With no proof of theft, the retailers demand money -- often $200 but sometimes far more -- and promise to avoid suing if it is paid quickly.

True. My friend's wife got nailed by RiteAid for using the cosmetics testers. They never called the cops, never filed a police report, but did get all her information. Few weeks later she got a certified letter demanding payment of $500 or civil charges would be filed for $1000.

My friend sent them back a certified letter with a photocopy of his hand with middle finger extended, written on it is sharpie was "file criminal charges or face harassment charges". Never heard from RiteAid or the lawyers again.

[ViLaLuz]

Sounds like they are looking for intimidated people to pay anyway without charges, like unscrupulous debt collectors.