Retail Theft Mitigation Operation Results in Multiple Arrests

NARRATIVE OF INCIDENT:

Retail theft is a growing threat for retailers, customers, and communities around the state. During the week of September 25th, 2023, the Springfield Police Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) worked with loss prevention personnel from the Springfield Target store on Gateway Street to run a mission specifically addressing retail theft. During a four-hour period, ten people were arrested for stealing various items including electronics, clothing, housewares, personal care items and food. None of the individuals arrested made any attempt to pay for the items they had taken from inside the store.

Most of the individuals were cited to appear in the Springfield Municipal Court to be held accountable for their actions. One of the people arrested for theft also had outstanding arrest warrants and was taken into custody without incident.

This is the second retail theft mission SPD has engaged in recently and more are planned for the near future. The Springfield Police Department is committed to and focused on addressing criminal activity in our city, including retail theft. The SPD Crime Reduction Unit will continue to work alongside of community partners to identify problems, collaborate on effective ways to address them, and then take action to improve the safety, security, and livability of Springfield.

If you would like more information on ways to partner with SPD, please contact us at police@springfield-or.gov.