Combatting organized retail crime in Virginia

The staggering $1.3 billion in merchandise stolen each year in Virginia alone underscores the critical nature of combating organized retail crime and its far-reaching impact on law-abiding citizens, businesses, and the overall economy.

Economic Impact and Lost Opportunities Attorney General Jason Miyares emphasized the broader economic implications of ORC and its role in funding narcotics and human trafficking.

“$1.3 billion worth of loss in in merchandise stolen is translated to about $80 million in tax revenue lost to the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said AG Miyares. “It could go to your school district, to roads, to pay for law enforcement. It could go to teachers. And these are not stealing to survive scenarios. These are scenarios of people that are oftentimes tied to organized criminal elements that are using it as well.”

A Collaborative Approach The Attorney General detailed Virginia’s collaborative efforts to address organized retail crime. A task force consisting of government and non-government stakeholders, including representatives from law enforcement, retail associations, and big-box retailers worked to support legislation that classifies theft of retail merchandise exceeding $5,000 in a 90-day period as a class three felony.

AG Miyares urged active participation from businesses, retailers, and citizens in shaping legislative responses to organized retail crime. He stressed the importance of engagement with local chambers of commerce, elected officials, and relevant organizations to address the issue effectively.