State doing more to combat retail theft

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Higher protections against organized retail theft were enacted in New York State through the adoption of the newest state budget. With data showing a significant spike in organized retail thefts over the last six years, penalties for committing the crime have been increased to divert statistics.

Assaulting a retail worker was increased to a felony charge and a tax credit of $5 million was created to help increase business security measures. In the budget, $40.2 million was also dedicated to state police and local law enforcement to comprise retail theft teams.

The increased protections are part of a five-point plan to fight organized retail theft created by Governor Kathy Hochul. Along with the tax credit for better security, increasing penalties, and $40.2 for retail theft teams in law enforcement, prosecutors can now combine the value of stolen goods and it's illegal to foster the sale of stolen items.

Retail Council of New York State President and CEO Melissa O’Connor says stores needed Hochul's help to address organized retail crime and habitual retail theft and keep New York State as the retail capital of the world. "We will continue to engage with all stakeholders to ensure a safe and enjoyable shopping experience in stores throughout New York State," she said.