To help educate state legislators about the growing problem of retail crime, the National Retail Federation (Washington) has created a comprehensive package detailing organized retail crime for members of its State Association Council.

The package includes language defining organized retail crime, which state retail associations can use to enhance or create legislation in their respective states. The language distinguishes between amateur and professional shoplifters to expedite prosecution of organized retail criminal gangs.

The model legislation includes definitions of fraudulent receipts, theft using the retailer’s emergency exit to avoid apprehension, theft with intent to resell, third felony act, pattern of criminal offenses, enhanced theft and the fencing of stolen goods.