Many theft rings also involved in other criminal activities

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** CMPD Retail Theft Task Force at Work
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Did you know as much as 68.9 billion worth of products were stolen from retailers in 2019 (pre-COVID)? In 2019, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department launched the Organized Retail Theft Task Force (combining 13 detectives across 10 divisions) to investigate retail theft crimes committed by repeat offenders.

Organized retail theft has cost Charlotte retailers millions of dollars. Home improvement stores, Walmarts and grocery stores are particularly targeted. In 2021, the Task Force investigated 481 cases with the vast majority of them being larceny or shoplifting. 226 of those cases remain open. A recent investigation led to the recovery of nearly $150,000 of cash and stolen property. The Task Force teamed up with the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department, Pineville Police Department, and retail theft investigators from Home Depot all assisted.

Another alarming trend is driving up armed robbery cases – 25 cases to date in 2022. Shoplifters are stealing items that they use as weapons against employees and security guards to escape.

If you see $250 items being sold on an online marketplace for $150, that could be a clue it was stolen. Detective Anthony Finocchio says, "Why wouldn't that individual just take that item back and get the full refund?... They could possibly — not knowing — (be) buying stolen items."
CMPD said people should call 911 if they witness organized retail crimes. Do not approach any person trying to flee a scene!

I am committed to building a safe Charlotte regardless of zip code. On the preventive end, expanding access to affordable housing, quality education, and economic opportunities in all parts of our city will offer hope for a future with less crime.

I ask for your vote in the upcoming primary election. I very much want to continue the work I have started as your At-Large City Councilwoman and so I humbly ask for your vote. Early voting begins April 28 and ends May 14. Click here ([link removed]) for info on locations and times.

Click here ([link removed]) to invest $22 for our 2022 campaign. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Dimple Ajmera
Charlotte City Council
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
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Dimple Ajmera for City Council
6528 Matlea Ct., Charlotte, NC 28215
Paid for by The Committee to Elect Dimple Ajmera
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