V.I. Attorney General Joins National Coalition Urging Congress to Combat Organized Retail Crime

Amid a nationwide surge in organized retail crime, Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea of the U.S. Virgin Islands has joined 38 attorneys general from across the country in urging Congress to take decisive action against the growing threat.

The bipartisan coalition has formally requested that the 119th Congress reintroduce critical legislation to strengthen enforcement, increase penalties, and allocate resources to combat retail theft rings that are costing businesses billions.

Organized retail crime has led to more than $121 billion in financial losses across the United States, with 76% of retail asset protection managers reporting incidents of employee assaults linked to these criminal networks. Cargo theft is another major factor, disrupting supply chains and contributing to rising consumer prices for essential goods, including baby formula and clothing.

According to Attorney General Rhea, the Virgin Islands is not immune to these crimes, which not only harm businesses but also jeopardize the safety of local communities. “In light of the alarming rise in organized retail crime across our nation, I am proud to join a bipartisan coalition of 38 states and territories in urging Congress to take decisive action. This growing issue not only threatens the livelihoods of retailers but also impacts local communities and economies, including the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is imperative that we work together to implement effective measures that protect businesses and ensure the safety of consumers,” he stated.