San Diego, December 18, 2025
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan has urged federal action to combat organized retail theft, highlighting challenges faced by local authorities. In her testimony before the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, she called for a national database and the passage of the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act to enhance coordination and support against these crimes. State-level efforts in California have led to significant arrests and recoveries of stolen goods, but the problem persists, demanding comprehensive solutions.
San Diego District Attorney Urges Federal Action Against Organized Retail Theft
San Diego, CA – On December 17, 2025, San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan testified before the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, calling for enhanced federal support to combat organized retail theft. Stephan highlighted the challenges local authorities face in addressing these crimes and emphasized the need for a coordinated national response.
Challenges in Combating Organized Retail Theft
Stephan detailed the difficulties in prosecuting organized retail theft, noting that while local law enforcement has successfully prosecuted over 330 individuals involved in such crimes, the masterminds behind these operations remain elusive. She stated that current efforts are primarily targeting “boosters”—individuals who physically steal goods—but are less effective against the organized criminals orchestrating these activities.
Call for Federal Support and Legislative Action
During her testimony, Stephan urged Congress to establish a national database to track organized retail crime, facilitating better coordination among law enforcement agencies. She also advocated for the passage of the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act, which aims to create a centralized coordination center at the Department of Homeland Security to improve information sharing and assist law enforcement in dismantling these sophisticated networks.
Recent State-Level Efforts and Successes
At the state level, California has been proactive in addressing organized retail theft. Between October 2023 and June 2025, state-funded local law enforcement operations led to over 25,675 arrests and the recovery of more than $190 million in stolen goods. These efforts have been supported by grants enabling law enforcement agencies to enhance their capabilities in combating such crimes.
Background on Organized Retail Theft
Organized retail theft involves coordinated efforts by criminal groups to steal large quantities of merchandise, often targeting high-end items, and resell them through various channels, including online marketplaces. This type of crime not only results in significant financial losses for retailers but also poses safety risks to employees and customers. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach, including legislative action, enhanced coordination among law enforcement agencies, and support for affected businesses.
Key Features of Organized Retail Theft
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coordinated Criminal Activity | Organized groups plan and execute thefts, often targeting high-end merchandise for resale. |
| Financial Impact | Retailers face significant losses, with stolen goods often resold online, affecting both large and small businesses. |
| Safety Concerns | Employees and customers are at risk due to the aggressive tactics employed by thieves during thefts. |
| Need for Comprehensive Solutions | Addressing the issue requires legislative action, enhanced coordination among law enforcement, and support for affected businesses. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is organized retail theft?
Organized retail theft involves coordinated efforts by criminal groups to steal large quantities of merchandise, often targeting high-end items, and resell them through various channels, including online marketplaces.
What challenges do local authorities face in combating organized retail theft?
Local authorities primarily target “boosters”—individuals who physically steal goods—but face difficulties in prosecuting the masterminds behind these operations.
What federal actions are being proposed to address organized retail theft?
Congress is considering the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act, which aims to create a centralized coordination center at the Department of Homeland Security to improve information sharing and assist law enforcement in dismantling these sophisticated networks.
What recent state-level efforts have been made to combat organized retail theft?
Between October 2023 and June 2025, state-funded local law enforcement operations in California led to over 25,675 arrests and the recovery of more than $190 million in stolen goods.
Why is organized retail theft a significant issue?
Organized retail theft results in significant financial losses for retailers and poses safety risks to employees and customers, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address the problem.
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