Originally Posted by Artkansas

What I wrote is not "mumbo jumbo". It's very straightforward if you read it. But I appreciate that it may seem confusing if you are not familiar with the American legal system. I have been shopping in all of these stores for over 3 years, peaceably going about my business, enjoying good relations with the cashiers and baggers. buying things and contributing to their bottom lines.

These changes in store policy are recent. I suspect that with the worsening economic conditions, they are experiencing increasing theft in their stores and they are trying to fight it. To do this they are implementing a number of policies including impounding backpacks. Since they are admitting that their store is a high-theft area, I want to be sure that my backpack is safe in their care.

I've even given thought to how I could give up having a backpack, but since it carries so many things including bike tools and parts, money, checks, and even expensive items like video cameras, I don't see any other way. So I have to ensure my goods are safe. If that's nutty, so be it.