Combating Organized Retail Crime Act

Organized theft groups are significantly increasing criminal activities against the retail industry and supply chain, leading to substantial financial losses, violence, and disruptions. These groups often operate across state lines, reselling stolen goods through physical and online marketplaces, and using profits to finance other criminal enterprises like drug and weapons trafficking. Existing state and local law enforcement efforts face challenges due to the cross-jurisdictional and sophisticated nature of these crimes, necessitating a stronger federal response. To combat these issues, the bill amends Title 18 of the U.S. Code to strengthen federal laws concerning the interstate transportation and receipt of stolen goods. It expands the scope of offenses to include the use of any facility of interstate or foreign commerce and allows for the aggregation of stolen goods valued at $5,000 or more over a 12-month period for federal prosecution. Additionally, it broadens the definition of monetary instruments in money laundering statutes to include general-use prepaid cards, gift certificates, and store gift cards, enhancing the ability to prosecute financial aspects of these crimes. A key provision of the bill is the establishment of an **Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center** within the Department of Homeland Security. This Center will coordinate federal law enforcement activities, establish relationships with state, local, and tribal agencies, and collaborate with retail and transportation companies to share information and assist in investigations. Staffed by special agents and analysts from various federal agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, and Secret Service, the Center aims to create a secure system for information sharing and track crime trends. The Center will be led by a Director and a rotating Deputy Director from agencies like the FBI or Secret Service, and its authority will sunset after seven years. Furthermore, the bill mandates an evaluation of existing federal grant, training, and technical assistance programs for law enforcement to counter organized retail and supply chain crime. The Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General will report on these evaluations and issue guidance to enhance support for state, local, and tribal law enforcement in combating these pervasive criminal activities.