Attorney General James Uthmeier announced on Friday the successful results of Florida’s participation in a nationwide organized retail theft blitz operation, which led to 44 arrests and the recovery of over $207,000 in stolen assets.
The operation, conducted in conjunction with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), specifically targeted individuals and organized crime rings preying on retailers across the state.
Among those arrested were three individuals identified as illegal aliens. The Florida Organized Retail Crime Exchange (FORCE) was highlighted as a critical tool in the success of this large-scale enforcement effort.
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Attorney General Uthmeier emphasized the significance of inter-agency cooperation in achieving these results. “Due to great coordination among our state law enforcement and Florida Organized Retail Crime Exchange, 44 criminals were arrested as part of a nationwide organized retail theft blitz,” said Attorney General Uthmeier. “The rule of law means something in Florida; this is another example of our state working with law enforcement to stop criminals.”
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass reiterated the department’s commitment to combating retail crime. “FDLE was proud to take part in the National Organized Retail Crime Blitz in support of Attorney General James Uthmeier’s initiative to crack down on retail crime across the state,” said Commissioner Glass. “We are a law-and-order state, and together with our local and state partners are committed to protecting Florida’s businesses and communities.”
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“Florida’s retailers deeply value our strong partnership with law enforcement—our most important ally in the fight against organized retail crime,” said Florida Retail Federation President & CEO R. Scott Shalley. “The success of this nationwide blitz, and Florida’s significant role in it, underscores the impact of collaboration through FORCE. We commend Attorney General Uthmeier, FDLE, and all participating agencies for their continued commitment to safeguarding Florida’s businesses, employees, and customers from these criminal networks.”
The stolen merchandise recovered during the blitz spanned a wide array of products, including personal grooming products, clothing, sporting goods, and home repair tools, illustrating the diverse targets of organized retail theft rings.
This statewide effort is a significant step in Florida’s ongoing battle against a crime trend that costs businesses millions and impacts consumers nationwide.
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