Attorney General James Uthmeier has announced the formation of a new Retail Theft Investigative Special Task Force aimed at tackling organized retail theft in Florida. The initiative brings together law enforcement agencies and the Florida Retail Federation to address rising concerns about retail crime and its impact on businesses and consumers.
“Instead of having toothpaste locked behind plexiglass like CA & NY, we are taking decisive action to combat organized retail theft,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “Shoppers suffer when retail thefts drive up prices. This partnership between law enforcement and the Florida Retail Federation will help keep prices down and put criminals behind bars.”
Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay commented on the task force’s expected impact: “Anyone who chooses to commit a crime in Florida will be dealt with swiftly. The task force will strengthen our ability to get criminals off the street even faster by ensuring seamless coordination among law enforcement partners across the state.”
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters highlighted the state’s commitment to public safety, stating, “The launch of this statewide task force reinforces that Florida stands tall as a law-and-order state. This state and our leadership prioritize protecting law-abiding citizens and promoting a fertile business culture.”
R. Scott Shalley, President/CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, expressed support for the effort: “The Florida Retail Federation is grateful for the bold leadership of Attorney General James Uthmeier and our law enforcement partners in combating organized retail theft. The cross-agency collaboration made possible by this task force not only brings criminals to justice, but also protects Florida businesses, retail team members and consumers.”
Michael Tribony, Store Manager at The Home Depot, added: “The Home Depot is proud to be part of this solution to this growing challenge for communities across the county.”
The new task force is designed to provide local police with additional resources, remove jurisdictional barriers between agencies, and enable investigators to pursue stronger charges against offenders. By streamlining investigations through increased collaboration, officials hope to take swift action against both organized rings and repeat offenders.
Last year saw legislative changes when Governor DeSantis signed HB 549 into law. This legislation increased penalties for organized retail theft offenses and made certain repeat offenders eligible for sentences up to 30 years in prison. Since then, Attorney General Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution has charged 55 defendants with Organized Retail Theft and secured 52 convictions.
Retail theft continues to cause significant financial losses for businesses throughout Florida each year, often resulting in higher prices for consumers as companies attempt to recover losses.
Local law enforcement agencies interested in participating can obtain more information or sign up by contacting retailtaskforce@myfloridalegal.com.
