A retail theft mission has resulted in numerous arrests, the seizure of a firearm and recovery of stolen merchandise.
On Sunday, November 24, 2024, East Precinct officers, in collaboration with North Precinct officers, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a retail theft mission to combat retail theft. The multi-agency mission was conducted in the Mall 205 and Gateway Shopping Center areas. The work resulted in the recovery of approximately $1,146 worth of stolen goods. In addition, 25 people were arrested, one stolen vehicle was recovered and one firearm seized.
During retail theft missions, PPB members work directly with our retail partners to identify, apprehend, and work toward prosecution of these offenders. Following each retail theft mission, officers conduct follow-up and work closely with MCDA to ensure prosecution on these cases.
Retail theft is often more than just shoplifting items for personal use. Many suspects are involved in organized theft rings. That entails stealing items that can easily be sold for cash on the secondary market or returned to stores for a “refund.” Returning or attempting to return stolen property, no matter the value, is a class-C felony
(https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_164.055 ).
In many cases, these individuals are involved in criminal activity that extends far beyond retail theft, including illegally possessed guns, drug possession and distribution, vehicle theft, and more. Additionally, disrupting theft preserves the viability of retail businesses that serve the Portland community. Therefore, these missions go a long way in improving livability across the area. Mission commanders analyze theft and other crime data to focus their missions on the neighborhoods most impacted by these crimes, which are often large retail shopping complexes.
PPB recognizes that smaller local businesses are also impacted by retail theft and it is our belief and goal that arresting and holding prolific thieves accountable will help reduce these crimes for the entire business community.
PPB would like to thank its partners for their collaboration aimed at addressing retail theft in the Portland Metropolitan area.
Photo description: Suspect in custody
Photo description: Firearm seized
Photo description: Recovered merchandise
Photo description: Recovered merchandise
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