Theft by Employees

IHK-certified economic investigators of Kurtz Detective Agency Rostock comprehensively investigate thefts by employees to the detriment of the employer or staff, providing evidence admissible in court: +49 381 3739 0080.

Damage Caused by Staff

In addition to offences committed by outsiders, such as burglary or shoplifting, internal theft by employees causes billions of euros in damages annually in German companies. Anything not secured can be stolen — from paperclips to cash to plasma TVs. Often it starts with small items: office paper, a bag of sweets in retail, or cutlery in catering. The threshold for theft lowers if the perpetrator goes undetected.

From that moment on, hardly anything is safe. Primarily easily removed items vanish from company premises: smartphones, cameras, tablets, CDs, DVDs, small tools, and electronics. Often these thefts are only discovered during the annual inventory, but it is advisable not to wait that long. At the first suspicion, securing the professional support of our experienced Rostock economic investigators is strongly recommended. Depending on the case, different investigative methods are suitable; we are happy to provide non-binding advice. Please use our contact form or call our Rostock office at the number above.

Employee Theft – Teamwork or Small-Scale Rivalry?

In some cases, two or more employees work together to commit larger-scale thefts. For example, a warehouse worker and a delivery driver may cooperate to remove high-value items like TVs or lawnmowers unnoticed. The warehouse worker may manipulate delivery notes or write off items as “damaged,” while the driver transports the goods to an unknown location for resale, sharing the profit.

Alternatively, a single employee may steal from colleagues. A phone or laptop left on a desk, an unlocked wallet in a drawer — countless opportunities arise. Beyond financial loss, such thefts create distrust and unrest among staff, negatively impacting morale.

Various Investigative Methods by Experienced Economic Detectives

Prompt action is essential, and methods vary. Surveillance of a thieving driver may suffice, whereas for small-item thefts by an employee, inserting a detective as a “new colleague” may be appropriate. This technique, called inclusion, allows our Rostock investigator to move inconspicuously on company premises while observing the suspect(s).

Inclusion is highly effective but time-intensive. We are happy to advise on expected costs in advance. Describe your case by email to kontakt@kurtz-detektei-rostock.de or call our Rostock office at +49 381 3739 0080. Discreet procedures and court-admissible documentation are a given at Kurtz Detective Agency Rostock.