Los Angeles Tops List for 5th Year as Organized Retail Theft Surges in California

For the 5th straight year, Los Angeles ranks #1 for organized retail theft with a 1.6% "shrink rate" representing $18.2 billion in losses.

The San Francisco Bay Area ranked #2 and Sacramento ranked #7 for retail theft rates.

Thieves are frequently caught on video rushing into stores, grabbing items, and rushing out in "flash mob" style thefts.

In response, LA officials formed a regional task force to combat organized retail theft, resulting in dozens of arrests.

88% of retailers report shoplifters are more aggressive and violent compared to a year ago.