Maryland lawmakers are pushing for stricter penalties to tackle the surge in retail theft, aiming to protect local businesses and communities.
Lawmakers in Annapolis are really stepping up to tackle this issue. Since 2020, we’ve seen a rise in smash-and-grabs and shoplifting. It’s been a real problem for stores.
In fact, a report from Capital One showed that Maryland retailers lost over $1 billion in revenue last year. That’s a huge hit!
State Senator Ron Watson, a Democrat from Prince George’s County, pointed out how frustrating it is for customers. They often have to wait for an attendant to unlock items behind plexiglass because stores are trying to prevent theft.
Watson has introduced a bill to help curb this trend. His proposal would let prosecutors combine thefts over a 90-day period into one felony charge. This means if someone steals multiple times, it could really add up.
He also mentioned that they’re tracking down repeat offenders, some of whom have entire stores’ worth of goods in their apartments. This isn’t just about people needing food; it’s a bigger issue.
During a recent committee hearing, several county prosecutors and the president of the Maryland Retailers Association backed Watson’s bill. They highlighted the impact of theft on local businesses, noting that 37 pharmacies closed in the state recently, with retail theft being a major factor.
One of those closures was the CVS in Bowie Plaza. Local leaders said that theft played a big role in that decision. It’s sad to see a place that used to serve the community now sitting empty.
Watson expressed concern about how these closures affect community confidence. It’s not just about crime stats; it’s about how safe people feel in their neighborhoods.
After a positive hearing, Watson’s bill is still moving forward in the State House. Let’s see how it all unfolds!
