PHOENIX, AZ — Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has launched the second phase of her holiday shopping campaign, “Safe Shopping II: The High Cost of a ‘Good Deal'”, aimed at raising awareness about the widespread harm caused by Organized Retail Crime (ORC). This updated initiative builds on the success of the original 2023 campaign, highlighting the severe impact of ORC on communities, retailers, and consumers.
The Growing Threat of Organized Retail Crime
Unlike shoplifting, where items are taken for personal use, ORC involves large-scale theft of products that are later resold in private homes, vehicles, or through online platforms. These operations generate millions of dollars in losses for legitimate businesses and fund dangerous activities such as drug manufacturing, human trafficking, and money laundering.
“We all want a good deal, and I understand that,” said County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “But when you’re buying stolen property, even unknowingly, you’re fueling criminal enterprises that profit off the pain of our communities. These crimes lead to unimaginable human suffering.”
Significant Progress in Combating ORC
Since launching the Organized Retail Crime Task Force in 2022, Mitchell’s office has:
- Prosecuted over 600 ORC cases.
- Recovered millions in stolen goods.
- Seen a 25% increase in new ORC cases submitted to the office.
- Achieved a 46% rise in convictions over the same period.
Safety First: Avoiding the Risks of ORC
Over the holiday season, the campaign will focus on educating the public on how to avoid purchasing stolen goods and staying safe.
Key advice includes:
- Protect Yourself First: Never confront thieves if you witness a theft. Instead, notify a store manager or law enforcement.
- Understand that thieves may be under the influence of dangerous drugs or directed by ORC handlers, making them unpredictable and potentially violent.
“By learning what ORC is and how to avoid it, you can help local retailers thrive and keep your community safe,” Mitchell emphasized.
Economic and Community Impact
Michelle Ahlmer, Executive Director of the Arizona Retailers Association, noted that the repercussions of ORC extend beyond financial losses. The presence of ORC can lead to store closures, neighborhood blight, and increased law enforcement costs, significantly affecting local communities.
“As a community, we need to recognize that the cost of a ‘good deal’ on stolen goods is far higher than you think,” Mitchell said. “A little knowledge goes a long way in preventing significant damage.”
Through this campaign, MCAO aims to empower Arizonans to make informed decisions, ensuring a safer and more secure holiday season for all.
