[my_pointy_head_is_sharp]

will no longer prosecute first-time thieves unless they are between 18 and 65 and steal merchandise worth at least $25

Shoplifters between the ages of 18 and 65 will still be prosecuted. But the very young and the very old will get a free pass. Hmm.

[my_pointy_head_is_sharp]

I guess I have a reading comprehension problem. Either that or the statement is very poorly written.

[xroadie]

very young and very old first time offenders.
This is a strictly business decision, made some time ago. I'm sure they will still scare the young kids and elderly, but it costs too much all around to pursue these cases vigorously. This is some typical "get Walmart" stuff, as disgruntled employees are supposed to be concerned about the social costs of underpaid labor on their communities, but now they are concerned about shoplifiting affecting their ability to "do their jobs." Now publish it onto the NYT and hope people start stealing more from Walmart. They want Walmart unionized or closed. They are vermin.