Organized Retail Crime: Lawmakers Demand Action from Homeland Security

A bipartisan group of House lawmakers is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to address the growing problem of organized retail crime, which is costing businesses billions of dollars annually and posing risks to public safety.

A group of over 75 House lawmakers has sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), urging the agency to take action against organized retail crime (ORC). The letter, led by Rep. David Joyce (R-Ohio), highlights the devastating impact that ORC is having on businesses and communities across the country.

According to the Retail Industry Leaders Association, ORC caused nearly $70 billion in financial losses to U.S. retailers in 2019. This number has continued to increase year by year, with businesses of all sizes being impacted. In addition to the financial losses, ORC also poses risks to public safety. Thieves often use violence to intimidate retail workers and shoppers, and stolen goods can include hazardous items such as baby formula and pharmaceuticals.

Organized Retail Crime: Lawmakers Demand Action from Homeland Security

The lawmakers are calling on DHS to establish an organized retail crime coordination center. This center would facilitate information sharing, resource allocation, and strategic planning, which would enhance the ability of law enforcement and businesses to combat ORC.

The letter is signed by 46 Republicans and 30 Democrats, demonstrating the bipartisan nature of the issue. In a statement, Rep. Joyce said, "Organized retail crime is a serious problem that is affecting businesses and communities across the country. We need to take action to address this issue and protect our citizens."

Organized Retail Crime: Lawmakers Demand Action from Homeland Security

ORC is a rapidly growing problem, as criminal rings target retail stores in all parts of the United States. In California, "burglary tourism" has become a major issue, with unvetted foreign nationals raiding luxury homes. In Florida, a restaurant owner has been exposing "dine-and-dashers" on social media. In New York City, a store that survived the Great Depression is now fearing for its future due to liberal policies that have emboldened criminals.

The lawmakers' letter is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to address the problem of ORC. Businesses and communities need to work together with law enforcement to combat this threat and protect our citizens.

Organized Retail Crime: Lawmakers Demand Action from Homeland Security