State attorneys general are taking on a larger role in combating organized retail crime, creating new opportunities for retailers and law enforcement to work together across jurisdictions. Speakers at NRF PROTECT 2026 highlighted how stronger partnerships, updated laws, and improved information sharing are leading to more effective investigations and prosecutions.
The discussion also reinforces efforts underway in Washington state, where organized retail crime remains a priority for retailers, law enforcement, and policymakers. The Washington Retail Association has partnered with the Washington State Attorney General’s Office on organized retail crime initiatives, including education, coordination, and advocacy to improve reporting and prosecution of ORC cases. This collaboration includes the development of the Organized Retail Crime Resource Hub, which provides retailers and stakeholders with tools, guidance, and reporting resources to better identify and respond to criminal activity.
In Maryland, the attorney general’s office established an organized crime unit that works closely with retailers and asset protection professionals. Officials said the state’s organized retail theft law allows investigators to combine theft incidents from multiple jurisdictions when they are part of the same criminal scheme. This broader approach helps prosecutors build stronger cases against organized crime networks rather than treating incidents as isolated thefts.
Similar efforts are underway in other states. Pennsylvania expanded the authority of its attorney general’s office through legislation passed in 2024, giving it jurisdiction over organized retail crime cases and increasing penalties for large-scale theft operations. The state also holds regional meetings that bring together retailers, local police, state police, and prosecutors to review cases and identify patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Arkansas adopted its own organized retail crime law in 2025 and is focusing on educating prosecutors and courts about using the new statute. The attorney general’s office also hosts quarterly meetings with retailers to improve coordination and strengthen relationships before major cases arise.
Panelists emphasized that organized retail crime extends beyond highly publicized store thefts. Criminal networks are also involved in gift card fraud, cargo theft, and employee related theft, making collaboration between retailers and law enforcement increasingly important.
Retail leaders noted that organized retail crime affects more than financial losses. It also impacts employee safety, customer experience, and the surrounding community. Speakers encouraged retailers to build relationships with law enforcement and fellow businesses before incidents occur, emphasizing that proactive collaboration leads to stronger investigations, improved public safety, and better long-term outcomes for communities.
