Organized retail crime continues to be one of the most significant problems facing our country and the retail industry. It’s been estimated that over $45 billion was lost to retail theft last year. These crimes are becoming more serious and dangerous as revisions in theft crime methods embolden thieves while crime-fighting resources are dwindling.

Last week over 200 loss prevention, asset protection, police officers, prosecutors, and government affairs professionals attended a two-day virtual Regional Organized Retail Crime Conference. ORC organizations from Washington, California, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, and Oregon participated in the event. Washington Retail and the Washington Organized Retail Crime Association served on the planning committee.

Thought-provoking speakers addressed the issues of human trafficking and its ties to organized retail crime, legislation aimed at combatting ORC on both a state and federal level, the community impacts from ORC, creating and funding a state ORC task force, and practical operational applications in combatting ORC.

Discussions are taking place on potential future conference events.

Here is a recent KOMO 4 News report highlighting the growing concerns over retail theft

If you are interested in learning more about or joining the fight against ORC – please contact me:  [email protected]