Louisville, Kentucky, December 13, 2025
In response to a significant rise in organized retail theft, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has launched a task force aimed at combating this crime. The task force will consist of specialized personnel dedicated to investigating and prosecuting these offenses to protect local businesses and communities affected by such activities. The initiative comes as losses from retail theft are projected to exceed $2 billion. Legislative support is also anticipated to enhance resources for tackling this pressing issue.
Louisville, Kentucky – Attorney General Launches Task Force to Combat Organized Retail Theft
Louisville, Kentucky – Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has announced the formation of a new task force aimed at addressing the significant rise in organized retail theft across the state. This initiative comes in response to a 30% increase in such crimes over the past year, with losses estimated at over $2 billion in 2023.
Formation of the Task Force
The task force will consist of four detectives, two criminal analysts, and a prosecutor, all dedicated to investigating and prosecuting organized retail crime. Attorney General Coleman emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that it aims to send a clear message to criminals that Kentucky is no longer a safe haven for such activities.
Impact on Communities
Organized retail theft not only affects businesses but also has a broader impact on communities. State Representative Jared Bauman highlighted that these crimes drive up prices for consumers and can lead to store closures, creating “food deserts” in already struggling neighborhoods.
Legislative Support
In addition to the task force, Representative Bauman plans to introduce legislation next month to establish an Organized Retail Crime Task Force. This proposed legislation aims to enable local, state, and federal partners to collaborate more effectively by allocating funds and resources to investigate and prosecute these crimes.
Background Context
Organized retail crime involves coordinated efforts to steal large quantities of merchandise, often reselling it through various channels. The Kentucky Retail Federation reported that in 2022, retailers lost more than $2 billion due to such crimes, a figure that doubled the previous year’s losses.
The formation of this task force and the proposed legislation reflect a concerted effort by Kentucky officials to address the growing threat of organized retail theft and its impact on the state’s economy and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new task force announced by Attorney General Russell Coleman?
The task force aims to investigate and prosecute organized retail crime in Kentucky, addressing a 30% increase in such crimes over the past year and losses estimated at over $2 billion in 2023.
Who will be part of the task force?
The task force will consist of four detectives, two criminal analysts, and a prosecutor, all dedicated to tackling organized retail theft.
How does organized retail theft affect communities?
Organized retail theft leads to higher prices for consumers and can result in store closures, creating “food deserts” in already struggling neighborhoods.
What legislative actions are being considered to combat organized retail crime?
Representative Jared Bauman plans to introduce legislation next month to establish an Organized Retail Crime Task Force, enabling local, state, and federal partners to collaborate more effectively in investigating and prosecuting these crimes.
What is organized retail crime?
Organized retail crime involves coordinated efforts to steal large quantities of merchandise, often reselling it through various channels. In 2022, Kentucky retailers lost more than $2 billion due to such crimes, doubling the previous year’s losses.
Key Features of the Task Force Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Task Force Composition | Four detectives, two criminal analysts, and a prosecutor dedicated to investigating and prosecuting organized retail crime. |
| Legislative Support | Proposed legislation to establish an Organized Retail Crime Task Force, facilitating collaboration among local, state, and federal partners. |
| Community Impact | Addressing the economic and social effects of organized retail theft, including higher consumer prices and potential store closures. |
| Background | Organized retail crime has led to significant financial losses for Kentucky retailers, with losses estimated at over $2 billion in 2023. |
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