Washington state lawmakers are introducing a bill to combat rising organized retail theft. The proposed House Bill 1276 aims to add tougher penalties for criminals involved in large-scale retail theft.
Under the bill, offenders caught stealing goods worth $20,000 or more will face an extra 12 months in prison.
If the stolen items exceed $50,000, the sentence increases by 24 months. This bill is part of the state’s efforts to curb retail crime, which has been increasing over the years.
How Retail Theft is Currently Punished?
At present, organized retail crime in Washington carries a sentence of up to 10 years. The severity of punishment depends on the value of stolen goods and other factors. A person can be charged if they:
- Steal or possess stolen goods worth $750 or more with an accomplice.
- Commit theft from a business where the total stolen goods reach $750 or more within 180 days.
- Steal $750 or more in goods with at least six accomplices and use electronic communication to plan or execute the theft.
Lawmakers Speak Out on the Issue
Rep. Mari Leavitt, who supports the bill, highlighted the impact of retail theft on Washington’s economy.
“Washington has been hit hardest by organized retail crime, with businesses losing nearly $2.7 billion in 2021,” she said.
“This isn’t just about shoplifting—it’s about organized crime rings that intentionally steal in massive quantities.”
According to Leavitt, a small number of criminals are responsible for most retail theft losses. She cited a case in Western Washington where a single individual stole sneakers worth $500,000 across multiple locations.
Impact on Businesses and the Economy
Retail theft affects more than just store owners. Businesses often pass on losses to consumers by raising prices or reducing staff.
Mark Johnson from the Washington Retail Association stated that nearly $3 billion is lost annually due to organized retail crime.
“This isn’t about people stealing food because they’re hungry,” Johnson explained. “These are well-planned thefts, where criminals wipe entire shelves clean and resell the goods elsewhere.”
A recent case in Seattle involved a group stealing $80,000 worth of Lululemon leggings over several months.
Other reports include thefts of over $140,000 in merchandise from stores like Ulta in Federal Way.
Strengthening Laws to Close Loopholes
Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell said outdated laws allow organized theft rings to escape severe punishment.
He noted that criminals take advantage of weak prosecution policies and operate across state lines to avoid harsh sentences.
“These groups know how to exploit gaps in the law, moving from one store to another and selling stolen goods online,” Ferrell said. “This bill is a necessary step to stop them.”
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Bipartisan Support for Stricter Laws
Though no timeline has been set for a vote, House Bill 1276 has gained bipartisan support. Lawmakers from both parties recognize the urgent need to address retail crime and protect businesses and consumers.
With stronger laws in place, Washington hopes to send a clear message: organized retail crime will not be tolerated.
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