If you shop at Target in New Jersey a lot, you’ve probably noticed things are a little… different lately.

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More locked cases, more empty shelves, maybe even having to ask someone to unlock something as simple as deodorant or face wash.

Yeah, there’s a reason for that.

First off, I love Target. I don't know if it's the lighting in the store or the isles, but it's clearly one of my favorites. When I go to Target, it's like an event for me.

Target stores across New Jersey have become a huge target (no pun intended) for shoplifting, according to financebuzz.com. And once you see what people are actually taking, it starts to make a lot more sense.

So What’s Actually Getting Stolen?

It’s not just random stuff. There’s definitely a pattern. Here are the 10 items that keep disappearing the most:

  1. Toys
  2. Razor Blades
  3. Meat
  4. Electronics
  5. Printer Ink
  6. Cosmetics
  7. Baby Formula
  8. Socks
  9. Skincare
  10. Clothing

When You Look At It… It Kind of Adds Up

When you step back, it’s not just random chaos. It’s actually pretty predictable.

Most of these things are either: Expensive, Easy to carry Or things people genuinely need.

Some of it is clearly about reselling. But some of it? It just feels like people trying to get by.

Why You’re Seeing Locked Shelves Everywhere

Stores are trying to keep up. More security, more locked cases, more restrictions. And yeah, it slows everything down for regular shoppers.

The Reality of It All

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about Target. It’s about how expensive everything has gotten and how that’s starting to show up in everyday places.

Read More: Three New Jersey Restaurants Made Best List in U.S.

It’s kind of wild when you think about it. The stuff people are taking the most isn’t luxury, it’s basics.

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Gallery Credit: Liz Barrett Foster

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