Retail crime crackdown results in hundreds of arrests: authorities

From CNBC: 2025-06-04 09:42:00

A nationwide crackdown on retail crime led to hundreds of arrests in 28 states, involving over 30 retailers like Home Depot, Macy’s, and Ulta Beauty. Organized retail crime has been on the rise, with retailers reporting 93% more shoplifting incidents in 2023 compared to 2019. Law enforcement efforts aim to deter criminals and combat theft. Cook County State’s Attorney focuses on pursuing felony charges for retail theft.

California Highway Patrol arrests a retail crime suspect in Long Beach, CA. Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has filed charges in 1,450 felony retail theft cases since December. Prosecutors aim to crack down on retail theft networks by sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts. Retailers like Ulta Beauty and Walgreens participate in the operation, providing information and collaborating with law enforcement to combat organized retail crime.

Despite a decrease in overall theft, investigated incidents of organized retail crime are up double digits year over year for Home Depot. Participating retailers like Macy’s, T.J. Maxx, and Target are committed to partnering with law enforcement and advocating for stronger laws to combat retail crime. The operation aims to share data and observations to continue cracking down on retail theft.



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