In a concerted effort to curb the escalating epidemic of organized retail crime, US Attorney Tessa M. Gorman partnered with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for a high-level discussion with big-box retailers. On February 29th, leaders from Walmart, Lowe’s, Ulta, Rite-Aid, Walgreens, Safeway, Fred Meyer, and Target gathered for a roundtable conversation aimed at tackling the sophisticated criminal operations ripping off stores nationwide.
The frank dialogue was co-hosted by Gorman and HSI Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, where they highlighted the severity of the issue and their commitment to disrupting criminal enterprises. "We have seen organized retail crime become more and more common in the country, and in Western Washington," Gorman told participants, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact retail theft has on businesses and communities alike. According to a statement obtained by a press release from the US Attorney's Office, Gorman expressed pride in the collaboration with local forces and retailers to halt the criminal activity.
Special Agent Hammer painted a stark picture of the implications of such crime, not just on businesses but on society as a whole. "Organized retail crime does not only impact businesses, it undermines the well-being of our communities while threatening the safety and security of everyday people," Hammer said. He reiterated the commitment of HSI to work closely with local businesses in pursuit of those disrupting the peace and economy of the Pacific Northwest.
As part of the continuous effort, March 2023 saw the United States Attorney’s office indict a duo engaged in a cunning retail theft scheme, pleading guilty to wire fraud charges. The defendants swindled north of $800,000 worth of equipment by exploiting a retailer's rental service. Utilizing false identities, they rented and then unlawfully sold the equipment on platforms like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace, spanning over 190 different store locations across 23 states and involving 150 names. This information comes from plea agreements and is further detailed in an official release from the US Attorney's Office.
