Tactics Used by the NYPD to Catch Thieves Criticized

Court ruling says too many innocent people affected

NEW YORK (AP) — Sometimes the bait is a small amount of cash in a stray wallet. Or a credit card. Even a pack of cigarettes can do the trick.

Police in New York City leave the items unattended — on subway platforms, on park benches, in cars — and wait to see if someone grabs them.

H/T John Ross