Des Moines Sun

Organized retail crime is significantly impacting both businesses and consumers across the United States. These criminal activities involve sophisticated schemes, including cybercrime and fraud, which have led to substantial financial losses. According to the National Retail Federation, shoplifters are increasingly violent, endangering employees and customers.

Senator Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has been actively addressing this issue. He recently held a congressional hearing to discuss the effects of these crimes on retailers and shippers. An executive from the American Trucking Association supported Grassley's bipartisan bill, the Combatting Retail Crime Act, which aims to establish a coordinated federal response to tackle cargo theft.

During the hearing, Grassley highlighted efforts by the U.S. Department of Justice that resulted in indictments for thefts involving nearly half a million dollars' worth of Nike shoes. He also mentioned investigations linking thefts in Texas to a cartel responsible for over $100 million in nationwide thefts.

Grassley's bill seeks to enhance law enforcement's ability to respond to these crimes by providing new tools and resources. He emphasizes that organized retail crime not only affects prices but also supports other criminal activities such as terrorism and human trafficking.

Grassley continues his efforts in Congress to ensure that organized retail crime is met with appropriate legal consequences.