NYC Mayor Adams launches crackdown on retail theft in the 5 boroughs

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Retail theft complaints have almost doubled in the past five years, according to city officials, and on Wednesday, Mayor Eric Adams announced a new crackdown to combat the trend.

Adams said that last year 327 repeat offenders were responsible for 30% of the more than 22,000 retail thefts across the city — a 45% increase from 2021 and a 77% increase from 2018, according to city data.

The mayor’s plan includes several pieces focused on preventing people from committing retail theft in the first place, and taking enforcement action on those who do.

“Shoplifters and organized crime rings prey on businesses that have already taken a hit due to COVID-19, but, with this comprehensive plan, we’re going to beat back on retail theft through a combination of law enforcement, prevention and intervention,” Adams said.

State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-North Shore/Southern Brooklyn) is the primary sponsor of the assault legislation, and Assemblyman Charles Fall (D-North Shore/Brooklyn/Manhattan) is a co-sponsor of the assault legislation in his chamber.

“Amid the increasing incidents of shoplifting and theft here in New York State, it is crucial that we take decisive action to deter crime and safeguard our retail workers. My legislation to elevate the assault of a retail worker to a class D felony will send a strong message that such acts of violence will not be tolerated,” Scarcella-Spanton said. “By enhancing these penalties, this bill aims to improve the safety and well-being of both retail workers and patrons across the state. I remain committed to advocating for the protection of our hardworking retail employees, because no one should fear for their safety when they clock into work.”

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