8 retail theft suspects face RICO charges for allegedly targeting Georgia stores, state AG says
Georgia authorities announced RICO charges against eight individuals accused of participating in an organized retail theft operation targeting stores across the state. Prosecutors allege the group coordinated thefts, resold stolen merchandise, and operated as a criminal enterprise rather than committing isolated shoplifting incidents. The charges were brought by the state attorney general’s office as part of a broader crackdown on organized retail crime. Officials say the case reflects an escalation in enforcement strategies aimed at dismantling theft networks, not just arresting individual offenders.
Editor’s Note: Hear how to use the RICO statue to build ORC cases in this TalkLP Podcast.
Twin Cities businesses close early after ICE agent kills woman in Minneapolis
Businesses across parts of Minneapolis closed early following the fatal shooting of a woman by an ICE agent, citing safety concerns and heightened tension. The incident sparked protests and increased police presence in the surrounding area, disrupting normal business operations. Business owners reported uncertainty and concern for employee and customer safety as events unfolded. The situation highlights how law enforcement incidents can quickly ripple into operational and safety challenges for local retailers.
Family of Food Lion shoplifter killed by off-duty officer files lawsuit
The family of a man killed by Pineville police has filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging wrongful death and excessive use of force. The suit claims officers acted improperly during the encounter that led to the fatal shooting. City officials have stated the incident remains under investigation, with body camera footage and other evidence under review. The case adds to ongoing national scrutiny around police use-of-force incidents and accountability.
Amazon to Begin Layoffs Starting January 26, 2026, Targeting Up to 30,000 Jobs
Amazon plans to begin a new round of layoffs later this month that could affect up to 30,000 employees worldwide. The company cited cost controls, organizational restructuring, and shifting business priorities as reasons for the cuts. The layoffs are expected to impact corporate and technology roles rather than frontline fulfillment positions. The move reflects broader workforce adjustments across the tech and retail sectors amid changing economic conditions.
Suspect accused of striking security guard with vehicle, crashing into two cars during Colorado Springs robbery
A suspect is accused of striking a security guard with a vehicle while fleeing a robbery at a Colorado Springs business. Authorities say the suspect crashed into two additional vehicles while attempting to escape the scene. The injured security guard was transported for medical treatment, and police later arrested the suspect. The incident underscores the increasing violence associated with some retail theft and robbery cases.
Ok, Ok – guys! We heard you all fan-girling out over Shaun Jackson’s panel participation at the Asset Protection Executive Xchange (APEX) conference…..and we got him on the podcast! (you’re welcome) In this episode, TalkLP Podcast Host Amber Bradley chats with Shaun Jackson, Executive Director of Risk Management for Panda Restaurant Group about artificial intelligence (AI) and how to use it for simple and complex tasks. YOU (yes, you) can get started using AI today by thinking about the examples and strategies that Shaun expertly articulates in this podcast! Take a listen (and a deep breath) – you can do it!
This podcast episode is sponsored by a company that also prides itself on REAL talk about how AI solutions can benefit your entire organization AND it’s actually affordable because it’s not hardware-heavy. Need help with self-checkout? They’ve got that. Out-of-stocks? They’ve got it. Questions about real AI that is proven to work? Ask SAI. Find out more by visiting them at NRF’s BIG Show booth 6668 or contact them here.
SAI Group (Store-wide Active Intelligence) is a computer vision and GenAI company that provides comprehensive retail intelligence solutions. Founded in 2018, we partner with retailers to use AI technology for loss prevention, store safety, operational efficiency, and customer insights all from existing camera infrastructure. We do this using patent granted algorithms developed by us over years using real Retail data from global Retailers.
Dozens arrested, over $6K in stolen items recovered in retail safety blitz
It was a busy holiday season for Waterloo regional police.
The police service has released the numbers from its Holiday Retail Crime Safety Blitz this past December, and dozens of arrests were made.
Over the popular shopping season, 56 people were arrested with a combined 62 charges laid.
Police said the youngest of those arrested was just 14 years old, the oldest was 60.
Eight people were arrested on outstanding warrants.
Suspect arrested in organized retail theft ‘booster’ operation across Tampa Bay: court records
Court records show a Tampa Bay man is under arrest in connection with what investigators describe as an organized retail theft operation spanning multiple cities across the region.
According to court documents, Joseph Lee-Brown is accused of taking part in a coordinated scheme targeting major retailers, including multiple CVS locations in Sun City Center, Plant City, Tampa, and St. Petersburg. Investigators also link the operation to thefts at a Walgreens in Tampa and a JCPenney at Westshore Plaza.
Personal Shopper busted for alleged fraud sues Saks, claiming ‘calculated campaign’ to destroy his reputation
A former Saks Fifth Avenue personal shopper accused of stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars in a long-running scheme is now suing Saks, alleging the luxury retailer waged a “calculated campaign” to destroy his reputation.
Once hailed as a “stylist to Boston’s most fabulous socialites,” 43-year-old Suhail Kwatra now faces a criminal charge as authorities allege he made fraudulent refunds, mismanaged “promo cards,” gave unpaid merchandise to clients, and abused a corporate card.
Retail has no shortage of data, but clear answers are still hard to come by. In this TalkLP webinar, we get real about how sensor fusion is finally connecting RFID, video, EAS, and AI into one operational view that LP, ops, and merchandising teams can actually trust.
We’re digging into real use cases, real results, and what it takes to move beyond disconnected tools and endless dashboards. If you’re done managing chaos and ready to turn your tech investments into clarity, register now and add it to your calendar so you don’t miss it.
Alaina began her career in law enforcement as a Special Agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, where she built a strong foundation in complex investigations, intelligence-led operations, and collaborative problem-solving.
She later transitioned into retail, holding progressive leadership roles at Walgreens and Ross Dress for Less as an Area Loss Prevention Manager.
In these roles, she partnered closely with store operations, cross-functional business leaders, and law enforcement to reduce risk and protect people, assets, and brand integrity.
Grocery Industry: By the Numbers
Want a snapshot of what’s really shaping grocery retail today? OpenEye’s Grocery Industry by the Numbers infographic breaks down the biggest trends, from theft hotspots and shrink drivers to checkout behaviors and loss impacts. It’s a quick, visual way to see the data LP and operations teams are watching right now.
Check out the full infographic and get the stats behind the strategies.
Counterfeit cash found during Louisville courthouse arrest leads to 30+ new charges
A southern Indiana man was arrested on a warrant in Jefferson County court Thursday afternoon, but it's what he had on him at the time that resulted in more charges.
Hunter Byrnes, 29, of Charlestown, Indiana, was wanted on an outstanding warrant in Jefferson County for failure to appear in a different case.
According to an arrest citation, Byrnes was putting his belongings in a bag for processing when he pulled out a "large wad of cash" from one of his pockets, putting it in the bag with his other items.
Puppy allegedly stolen by man making delivery of Amazon package
A Texas pet owner said a delivery driver took his family’s Chihuahua puppy from outside their home.
Nathan Eby said home surveillance video from Dec. 17 shows a man delivering a package, petting two puppies and then appearing to place one of them into his vehicle before driving away.
Eby said he initially believed a wild animal may have taken Bonnie, but later realized what happened after reviewing the footage.
Amazon confirmed the delivery driver was a third-party contractor and said deliveries by that driver have been suspended while the company conducts an investigation.
In-store AI security: Consumer concerns vs retailer benefits
Shoppers are uncomfortable about the rise of AI on the shop floor, with the majority (59%) unhappy with retailers using it to track them in-store as part of their security measures, according to the study.
A lack of awareness is apparently as prominent as discomfort, with 57% completely unaware that AI-driven security is even being used.
The new report, ‘In-store Intelligence: AI’s Role in Retail’s Human Touch’ by VoCoVo, surveyed UK consumers and retail decision makers about how AI is being adopted in physical retail environments, which highlights a range of privacy concerns among shoppers.
Horseplay: Man rides horse through Target, grosses out shoppers as it poops on floor
A regular shopping trip suddenly turned into a scene straight out of a movie when customers inside a Target store witnessed something no one was prepared for.
Instead of carts and baskets, a man walked in riding a horse: yes, right through the store. As stunned shoppers stood frozen, the horse calmly moved through the aisles while people watched in disbelief.
The rider, identified in reports as TikToker Stephen Harmon, was not alone and appeared completely unbothered by the chaos around him. In a moment that left many confused, one shopper even stopped to pet the horse as it passed by.
Things took a messier turn when the horse pooped on the store floor, not once, but multiple times. The situation quickly caught the attention of staff, and an employee can be heard shouting, "What are you doing? Get out of the store with the horse!" The bizarre moment didn’t last long. After completing a full round inside the store, security stepped in and escorted him and the horse out of the building.
Edward Gonzalez Promoted to Asset Protection Director at Northgate Market
Northgate Markets has promoted a longtime leader to Asset Protection Director, marking a well-earned next step after 10 years with the company. Known for his people-first approach and steady leadership, he has played a key role in strengthening Northgate’s asset protection culture over the years.
The promotion signals continued investment in leadership, trust, and accountability across the organization. Congratulations on the next chapter.
Connect with Eddie on LinkedIn
Workplace Eye Injuries Cost $300M Per Year
Each year, roughly 20,000 U.S. workers experience eye injuries on the job that are serious enough to require medical treatment. These injuries cost an estimated $300 million per year in workers’ compensation, medical treatment, and lost productivity. However, up to 90 percent of these injuries could be prevented with trusted protective equipment.
With this in mind, the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) has published ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025, an updated national standard that defines performance, testing, and marking requirements for eye and face protective devices used in workplace and educational settings.
Are You Ready for the Feb. 1 OSHA Reporting Deadline?
The deadline for employers to prepare, certify and post a hard copy of their 300A annual summary of injuries and illnesses report in their workplaces for employees to see is Feb. 1—unless your business is excluded because you have fewer than 10 employees or are on a list of low-hazard industries, such as dental offices, advertising services and car dealers.
These are hard copy reports meant to be posted in the workplace for employees to see. Employers in certain other industries must electronically file their reports for 2018 with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) no later than March 2.
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