Florida Intensifies Efforts Against Retail Theft Amid Stable National Shoplifting Rates

Despite the Council on Criminal Justice’s findings of no clear national rise in shoplifting, with certain cities like St. Petersburg witnessing a sharp decline, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled a legislative plan aimed at curbing retail crime and porch piracy within the state. This initiative comes as a response to perceived increases in retail theft, particularly in major cities outside Florida.

DeSantis’s proposal includes elevating penalties for various forms of retail theft, including making it a felony to engage in coordinated theft or use social media for orchestrating such activities. This move underscores Florida’s commitment to maintaining its "law-and-order" stance and further reducing shoplifting incidents, building on the 30% decrease observed since DeSantis’s tenure began.