New York sees 12% drop in shoplifting as state cracks down

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Gov. Hochul says New York has turned the corner in the fight against retail theft.

The latest numbers show a 12 percent decline in shoplifting over the last year.

The problem exploded during the pandemic. From sophisticated targeting of high-end stores to low-level shoplifting at mom-and-pop stores, retailers begged for relief.

The state has committed $40 million for police units targeting retail theft.

New laws were passed, making it harder to get larceny cases dismissed. The state also increased penalties for assaulting retail workers and went after third-party sellers of stolen goods.