WASHINGTON—As organized retail crime (ORC) continues to pose a significant threat to retailers nationwide, recent state-level legislative wins and coordinated law enforcement crackdowns are providing some much-needed momentum in the fight against large-scale theft operations. However, industry observers caution that despite progress, the challenge is far from over.
In a new post on the Retail Industry Leaders Association's blog, titled “Retail Crime Crackdown: Steps Forward, But Far from Over,” Sarah Gilmore, senior director of government affairs, outlines recent developments aimed at curbing ORC, including new laws passed in nine states and a coordinated nationwide enforcement effort that led to hundreds of arrests across 28 states.
Among the most impactful legislation is New Jersey’s sweeping new law (SB 3587 & AB 4755), signed by Governor Phil Murphy earlier this month. This law increases penalties for repeat offenders, leaders of theft rings, and those who assault retail employees. The law also allows the aggregation of thefts committed over a 12-month period into a single chargeable offense—an approach seen as crucial to targeting sophisticated crime networks.
Tennessee and Utah also passed comprehensive measures. Tennessee’s law criminalizes online fencing of stolen goods, possession of fraudulent gift cards, and tampering with anti-theft devices. Utah’s legislation includes enhanced sentencing provisions and increased penalties for involving minors in theft schemes.
Gilmore also highlights the critical role of law enforcement and retailers in a multi-state ORC takedown last month. Major chains like Home Depot, Target, Walgreens, and Ulta Beauty shared key intelligence with investigators, enabling targeted arrests and dismantling several theft rings.
Despite these advances, Gilmore stresses that the real challenge lies in maintaining momentum. “Without continued funding, coordination, and political backing, these victories could lose impact over time. But for now, this crackdown is proving that when law enforcement, legislators, and businesses work together, meaningful disruption can happen—and that’s something worth recognizing,” she writes. Retailers continue to advocate for federal legislation—most notably the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA)—which would create a national coordination center and enhance cross-jurisdictional efforts.
As ORC groups become more adaptive and digitally sophisticated, retailers call for a long-term, collaborative approach combining legislation, enforcement, and technology-driven security solutions. The message is clear: while the tide may be turning, the fight against organized retail crime is far from finished.