The owner of a store in New York City is facing a dire situation as rampant shoplifting by illegal immigrants threatens to shut down his business. Chris Sciacco, the owner of Kaiya’s Pallets in Queens, has reported losses of $3,000 a month due to thieves targeting his store up to six times a week.
Sciacco expressed frustration, stating, “It’s not fair that these people can come into my store and steal willy-nilly and nothing gets done about it.” He fears that if the situation does not improve, he may have to cancel his lease and close down the store.
The challenges of getting law enforcement involved have only exacerbated the problem, with thieves stealing items such as Rogaine, Gatorade, and children’s underwear. Sciacco has resorted to selling individual pairs of underwear at $1 apiece in an attempt to address the issue.
The issue of rampant shoplifting in New York City comes as the city continues to grapple with the influx of illegal immigrants under the Biden administration. Mayor Eric Adams has acknowledged the strain on resources, warning that the city has “run out of room” to accommodate the growing population.
As the 2024 election season approaches, the issue of illegal immigration and its impact on businesses like Kaiya’s Pallets is likely to take center stage for many voters. The store owner’s plight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses in the current economic and political climate.