Final answer:
The theft prevention devices on clothing that spray ink are designed as a deterrence tactic, which increases the costs associated with committing the crime, thus making theft less appealing.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to situational crime prevention, the theft prevention devices on clothing that spray dark ink all over the stolen clothing when removed improperly are designed to increase the costs of crime through deterrence. This method raises the cost or the probability of being caught, making it less attractive for a potential thief to engage in the act of theft. The dark ink makes the stolen clothing unusable, thereby directly reducing the benefits of the crime for the thief.
These devices also act as a physical barrier and provide a visual cue that there are consequences to attempting theft, which can further deter the activity. Other deterrence approaches, such as improved lighting, body cameras for police officers, and more effective tax enforcement, are all examples of how raising the costs or the probability of getting caught can help reduce crime.