Shoplifting rates in New York City and across the state have seen a significant decrease of 13% according to Governor Kathy Hochul. The governor has been vocal about her administration’s efforts to combat retail theft, including the establishment of a $40 million statewide task force dedicated to addressing the issue.
During a recent event in Brooklyn, Hochul highlighted the success of the task force in reducing shoplifting incidents, particularly as the holiday shopping season approaches. The governor emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and ensuring their success in the wake of the pandemic.
NYPD data reveals that there have been 46,736 reported cases of retail theft so far this year, compared to 54,081 during the same period last year, marking a 13.5% decline. Hochul credits the efforts of the task force for this positive trend and commended the collaboration between various law enforcement agencies in cracking down on retail theft.
Since its inception in April, the task force has made 1,224 arrests and recovered over $2.6 million in stolen goods. Hochul’s push to address shoplifting through the task force led to the enactment of new laws in the state budget aimed at deterring recidivist shoplifters and third-party sellers of stolen goods. Additionally, penalties for assaulting retail workers have been heightened to a felony offense, and small businesses have been offered $5 million in tax credits to enhance security measures.
The governor’s focus on combating retail theft has been a key priority, especially in light of the significant losses incurred by businesses during the pandemic. Hochul’s commitment to supporting local retailers and ensuring a safe shopping environment for consumers has been a driving force behind the success of the task force in reducing shoplifting rates.
As New York City gears up for the holiday season, the decline in shoplifting incidents serves as a positive indicator of the state’s efforts to protect businesses and consumers alike. Governor Hochul’s dedication to addressing retail theft and promoting a thriving retail sector continues to be a cornerstone of her administration’s agenda.
