Changing the Tide on Retail Theft
Requires Smart Policy, Targeted Resources, Better Collab.
- By [ Michael Hanson ]
- Washington, DC
- 12/11/2023
“We appreciate lawmakers’ attention to the growing challenge of retail crime and its impact on retail employees, customers, and communities.
“Retail crime is not an urban or rural problem, it is not a Republican or Democratic problem, it is not an East or West problem, it is affecting every state and cities large and small across the nation. And unfortunately, as offenders have become more organized and brazen, retail employees are increasingly exposed to threats and physical violence.
“There are no shortcuts to solving this problem. RILA is committed to finding and enacting solutions at every level of government. We are partnering with prosecutors, law enforcement, community partners and social service organizations to curb this trend over the long-term.
“Among the lessons learned by retailers throughout this fight is that sustainable change, in which we restore vibrancy to communities, requires a comprehensive approach. For leading retailers, that means prosecution for violent offenders or habitual offenders who make a living re-selling stolen product; diversion and second chance opportunities for young people who make wrong decisions; and thoughtful collaboration when it comes to addressing societal issues like homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges.
“The retail industry is committed to changing the tide on retail theft. All reasonable and legitimate solutions are welcomed. We look forward to continuing to work the Chairman, Ranking Member and the members of the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence along with other interested parties within Congress, the administration, federal law enforcement, state legislatures, police departments, state attorneys general, and social services to help bring an end to deter organized retail crime and its negative impact on every community across the country.”
RILA’s full letter to the Subcomittee can be found here.
Tags
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Asset Protection
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Keeping Communities Safe
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Public Policy
