NEW JERSEY – The New Jersey Senate Tuesday passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Holly Schepisi (R-39) that would target the rising threat of organized retail crime by increasing penalties for retail theft and enhancing law enforcement’s ability to address these crimes.
“The surge of organized retail crime has cost businesses billions, driven up prices for consumers, and has put employee’s safety at risk as they face growing threats of violence from organized theft rings,” said Schepisi. “We’ve witnessed an alarming rise in large-scale theft operations across the nation, especially here in New Jersey, where stolen merchandise is swiftly sold for illicit gains. This legislation would impose tougher penalties to deter criminals and their theft organizations, and, most importantly, enhance protections for both retailers and their customers.”
Organized retail crime is a growing epidemic driven by professional theft rings that steal large quantities of goods from stores to resell, either directly or through a middleman—a practice known as fencing. These theft rings often cross state lines and in some cases operate internationally, targeting retailers of all sizes, from big box stores to small-town grocers and pharmacies.
Senator Schepisi’s bipartisan bill, S-3587, outlines various changes to New Jersey law related to organized retail crime, the online sale of stolen goods, gift card fraud, and the assault of retail workers. The bill additionally provides prosecutors the ability to aggregate shoplifting violations when determining the degree of the offense.
Gift card fraud, in particular, has been linked to organized crime in China and the production and smuggling of fentanyl. To combat this, the bill would establish stronger packaging and consumer notice requirements.
“At the heart of this issue is the safety of our communities, said Schepisi. “Retail employees shouldn’t have to fear for their safety, and shoppers deserve peace of mind that the products they buy are safe and haven’t been tampered with in any way.”
