TALLAHASSEE, FL – Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is taking aim at organized bans of so-called “smash-and-grab” retail thieves by launching a database intended to help retailers stay steps ahead of the theft mobs before they become organized. Moody unveiled the database earlier this month.
Called the TREUTH Florida Organized Retail Crime Exchange (T-FORCE), the first-in-the-nation database will let retailers share information about theft trends, suspects and organized theft rings already operating in the state with each other and with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors statewide. It will also help retailers share information about the kinds of items that have been stolen, and pinpoint the geographic location where the thefts have taken place.
Moody said that the information exchange is intended to help Florida retailers be collectively proactive against high-profile “smash-and -grab” thefts that are taking place at neighborhood and high-end stores in Chicago, San Francisco and New York.
“We are seeing lawlessness and out-of-control mobs preying on businesses and consumers in major cities outside of Florida, and we will not allow these crime sprees to harm Floridians or our retailers,” she said. “While we have done a good job of catching and prosecuting major retail theft rings in Florida, the threat is growing, and we must evolve with it.”
Florida Retail Federation Operated along with the Attorney General’s Office will operate the database which is available by invitation to retailers and law enforcement agencies that complete specialized training.
In addition to the database, Moody announced the launch of the FORCE task force. Composed of law enforcement personnel, prosecutors and retailers that will meet regularly to discuss trends, share criminal intelligence and coordinate investigations.
According to the National Retail Federation, organized retail theft costs businesses in Florida and across the U.S. an estimated $30 billion annually.
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