Target says it's closing 9 locations over crime, but New York City crime stats surrounding its East Harlem store tell another story

• Target said last week it would close nine stores in four metro areas over rising retail crime.
• City crime stats show that shoplifting rates are higher near stores that are staying open.
• Of course, shoplifting is not as worrying to retailers as risks to shopper and employee safety.

When Target announced nine store closures, it gave a rationale that few retailers ever say out loud — theft.

While theft is frequently speculated as the cause for a store closure, companies rarely specifically note it.