FLORIDA — A statewide retail theft operation has led to 44 arrests and the recovery of more than $207,000 in stolen merchandise, according to the Florida Attorney General’s Office.
The operation was part of a nationwide blitz targeting organized retail crime and was carried out by multiple Florida agencies. The Office of Statewide Prosecution reportedly led the effort in coordination with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Florida Organized Retail Crime Exchange (FORCE).
“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 James Uthmeier.
“The rule of law means something in Florida; this is another example of our state working with law enforcement to stop criminals.”
Three of those arrested were said to be in the country illegally.
The stolen merchandise reportedly included personal grooming products, clothing, sporting goods, and home improvement tools.
Participating law enforcement agencies in Florida included:
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
- Alachua County Sheriff’s Office
- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
- Leon County Sheriff’s Office
- Marion County Sheriff’s Office
- Seminole County Sheriff’s Office
- Altamonte Springs Police Department
- Gainesville Police Department
- Orlando Police Department
- Sanford Police Department
- Sunrise Police Department
- Tallahassee Police Department
“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 FDLE Commissioner Mark 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.”
Scott Shalley, President and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, said Florida’s role in the operation shows the strength of its partnerships.
“Florida’s retailers deeply value our strong partnership with law enforcement—our most important ally in the fight against organized retail crime,” said Mr 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.”
Founded in 2021, FORCE is a statewide task force and searchable database designed to help retailers, law enforcement, and prosecutors identify trends and dismantle organized retail theft rings across Florida.
