Canna, Scotland is the westernmost island in the Small Isles, and its crime rate skyrocketed overnight (also there is no police force on the island). The Canna Community Shop is a little "grocery store" next to the pier. Ever since this little business opened four years ago, the owners have left it open all day, so the local fishermen can get what they needed at all hours of the day. So, the shop has been run on the honor system ever since it opened. But recently a theft took place at the store. A number of things were taken—sweets, chocolate bars, coffee, biscuits, batteries—but the store's manager was most upset about the six hand-knitted wool hats that were stolen. According to Scotland's STV, "The crimes … are believed to be the first on Canna since a wooden plate was stolen in the 1960s."

As a result of this theft, the store will now be shut down at night. As the spokeswomen for the community trust, who owns the store, said "In the four years our shop has been run on an honesty basis this is the first time this has happened and we are all gutted by it."

Possible Preaching Angle:

Interesting how the entire island is hurt by one action. Sounds familiar doesn't it? Sin doesn't just impact us alone, it hurts our relationship with God and with those around us.

Source:

Bill Chappell, “Honor System Exploited On Scottish Island That Had Been Crime-Free,” NPR (6-17-15)