Scarecrows in action

For centuries, perhaps even millenniums, farmers have employed scarecrows in an attempt to protect their crops from predatory birds. Essentially, they dress up sticks to look like people on the theory this will keep birds away.

I can only assume that, based on their longevity, there is some sort of effectiveness to be found in this practice. I suppose that is largely since the birds cannot distinguish between a real person and a scarecrow.

But what if we expanded that concept? What if we employed scarecrows to deter human criminals? For example, local cops sometimes park an empty police car near a local troublesome intersection in an attempt to slow down the maniacs who have infested our state with their maniacal lane-swerving changes, excessive speed, close following, and all-around bizarre driving.

I think it probably works a little bit as I see brake lights a lot as they approach that car.

But what if we were to take it a step further...maybe put a live cardboard cutout of a fully dressed cop in a store? I think the only way that would not cut down on shoplifting would be if someone were to steal it.