Kentucky attorney general launches task force to crack down on organized retail theft

LOUISVILLE, Ky (WDRB) - Retail theft in Kentucky is soaring — up 30% from last year — and it's costing businesses billions.

According to the Kentucky Retail Federation, stores lost an estimated $2 billion to theft in 2023, double the $990 million reported in 2022. Now, Attorney General Russell Coleman is launching a new statewide retail theft task force to take on what he calls “organized crime operations” targeting stores across the Commonwealth.

“What we’re seeing right now in law enforcement — it’s like every bad science fiction movie we saw growing up coming true,” Coleman said. “It’s group-driven, profit-driven, and powered by technology.”

Law enforcement officials say these theft rings range from small groups stealing merchandise to large, organized networks exploiting technology and gift card systems. Last summer, four men — believed to be Chinese nationals — were arrested and later convicted for stealing millions through fraudulent gift card schemes. Police have also investigated smash-and-grab operations at several big-box hardware stores.

St. Matthews Police Chief Barry Wilkerson said the growing trend is taking a serious economic toll.

“We are seeing a huge economic impact, and I think that’s why General Coleman is specifically spearheading this initiative,” Wilkerson said.

The new task force will coordinate with local police departments and Commonwealth’s Attorneys across Kentucky to share intelligence and target criminal networks.

Officials warn retail theft isn’t a victimless crime — when stores close due to repeated losses, it can cost jobs and create “food deserts” in already struggling neighborhoods.

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