Earlier quoted context omitted.
Your quoted first paragraph: You make it sounds like this is something bad. What is wrong with Target's actions? I am confused.
Target has the opportunity to correct an individual whose punishment will be a misdemeanor but instead chooses to -escalate- the individual's behavior in order to punish them with a felony. Imagine that the misdemeanor — a fine and a few months in prison — would sufficiently deter an individual from ever stealing again, or at least from Target. Target's theft problem is resolved, and the individual goes on with a mor…
Imagine that the misdemeanor — a fine and a few months in prison