Guardians of commerce in Illinois
In episode 5 of Retail’s Most Wanted, Attorney General Kwame Raoul details the significant threat to communities, customers, and tax revenue posed by organized retail crime. The multifaceted impact of these crimes has prompted proactive and comprehensive measures in Illinois.
The brazen nature of ORC Organized retail crime differs significantly from ordinary theft, is often linked to other criminal activities, and is characterized by its brazen and violent nature. It can lead to the closure of stores, cause fear among residents, and prompt a shift to online shopping.
ORC not only affects individual retailers, but negatively impacts municipal reputations, blunting tourism and community productivity.
Establishing the Organized Retail Crime Task Force After becoming aware of the severity of the issue through a connection with Home Depot during the pandemic, General Raoul established the Organized Retail Crime Task Force, a team of experienced prosecutors and investigators.
The task force relies on data and tips provided by retailers to investigate and trace thefts back to their source. By collaborating with law enforcement partners and online marketplaces, the task force aims to detect patterns and identify those involved in organized retail crime.
Additionally, General Raoul’s office is working to provide additional funds and resources for local law enforcement as they focus on ORC to reduce shrinkage and create safer environments for shoppers.
Legislation and strengthening oversight Illinois has passed legislation to define organized retail crime in state law. The legislation places the burden on online marketplaces to ensure accountability for entities with a certain volume of sales. Collaborative efforts with platforms like eBay have proven essential in tracking down those monetizing ORC.
General Raoul continues to emphasize the importance of collaboration among states in combating organized retail crime. Through his leadership role at the Attorney General Alliance, he aims to publicize the issue and garner federal support. The AGA enhances partnerships with federal law enforcement to address the seriousness of ORC nationally.
Further, the sophisticated and interconnected nature of these criminal rings makes collaboration from the general public vital.
