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State Targets Organized Retail Crime
(IRN)-A new law aims at cracking down on organized retail crime.

Governor Pat Quinn has signed a bill into law that will expand law enforcement's ability to charge and prosecute offenders of organized retail crime. Under the new law, prosecutors will be able to seek forfeiture of assets of those convicted of organized retail crime.

Organized retail crime is more than simple shoplifting. It's shoplifting, usually by groups of perpetrators, for the purpose of selling the stolen goods.

Lawmakers who supported the bill say that the law helps protect taxpayers. It's estimated that Illinois lost $77 million in taxes in 2011 as a result of organized retail thefts. The retail industry loses an estimated $30 billion in merchandise across the nation each year. Proponents argue that the crimes also drive up consumer prices.

Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez says there was some "back and forth" on the bill. One concession was to allow individuals who have completed supervision for retail theft to have their convictions expunged after two years rather than five. The new law takes effect June 1.

(Source: Illinois Radio Network)
02 24 11 by Newsroom
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