National retail crime blitz leads to 1,900 arrests

WASHINGTON – The National Retail Federation, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, the Cook County Regional Organized Crime Task Force, and the Los Angeles Organized Retail Crime Association announced the results of the second National Organized Retail Crime Blitz today. This coordinated enforcement initiative took place across 32 states from August 1 to 9 and brought together law enforcement agencies and retail partners to combat organized retail crime through intelligence sharing, collaboration and targeted investigations.

“Organized retail crime continues to pose a significant threat to retailers and communities. Initiatives like the National Organized Retail Crime Blitz demonstrate what is possible when retailers and law enforcement come together toward a common goal,” NRF Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations David Johnston said. “We commend the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for its leadership in coordinating this nationwide effort, and for creating the partnerships necessary to disrupt sophisticated criminal networks and hold offenders accountable.” 

During the nine-day event, 84 law enforcement agencies from 32 states participated in the coordinated effort. The operation brought together 40 retail brands and resulted in more than 1,900 apprehensions and arrests, as well as the recovery or prevention of more than $2 million in retail theft losses.

Among those arrested, 42 cases involved the recovery of controlled substances. Participating agencies also developed seven leads involving "fencing” or the sale of stolen merchandise, recovered six stolen vehicles and seized eight weapons. In one specific case, an apprehension resulted in the recovery of a trafficked individual who was exploited and forced to steal for her abductors. This individual was provided with medical care, and the trafficking investigation remains ongoing.

“Organized retail crime is most effectively addressed when retailers and law enforcement work together,” Cook County Regional Organized Crime Task Force Deputy Director Edward Henkel said. “The campaign spotlights the impact of intelligence sharing and coordinated investigations in disrupting criminal activity and supporting safer communities across the country.” 

According to NRF’s Impact of Theft & Violence 2026 report, retail theft levels are stabilizing, but external theft and fraud continue to rise. While shoplifting incidents declined 12.4% and merchandise theft fell 8.1% in 2025, retailers reported more frequent repeat offenders, walkout and pushout theft, and ORC-related shoplifting events, highlighting the ongoing issue of organized retail crime.

NRF urges the U.S. Senate to pass the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, after the U.S. House of Representatives passed it in May. The legislation would strengthen federal coordination and equip state and local law enforcement to better identify and investigate cross-jurisdictional and transnational retail crime groups.