What is the felony charge related to organized theft activities in retail settings?

The term "Organized Retail Theft" specifically addresses theft activities that are planned and executed by groups or associations rather than isolated incidents of stealing, like shoplifting. This charge recognizes the complexities and scale of theft that involves multiple individuals working together to steal merchandise from retailers. Organized Retail Theft often includes methods such as coordinated theft schemes, where the use of distraction or other tactics is employed to maximize the amount of merchandise stolen, sometimes involving significant effort to bypass security systems.

This charge reflects the serious impact that organized crime has on retail businesses, leading to not just financial losses but also contributing to increased prices for consumers and potential job losses within affected businesses. The severity of this crime is recognized legally, which is why it is classified as a felony, reflecting its implications for not only the businesses involved but also for community safety and economic health. In contrast, crimes like shoplifting, theft by deception, and burglary, while serious, do not encompass the broader scope of organized efforts associated with an organized retail theft charge.