Why it matters:

Vancouver Police Department's innovative approaches to retail crime offer insights into successful public-private partnerships and emerging challenges in retail theft investigation.

The big picture:

• Shifting terminology: Officials are moving away from "shoplifting" terminology as it understates the organized nature of retail crime
• Multi-agency cooperation: Success requires collaboration between retailers, police, and courts
• Technology challenges: Video format compatibility and electronic disclosure systems remain key hurdles

Notable initiatives:

• Business Liaison Officer Program: Facilitates direct communication between police and retailers
• Project Barcode: Targets violent shoplifters and chronic offenders through coordinated operations

Key challenges:

• Rising violence and weapons presence in retail theft incidents
• Coordination with online marketplaces for investigating stolen goods
• Managing complex relationships between unhoused populations, mental health, and organized retail crime

What's next:

Vancouver PD aims to improve technological capabilities and public awareness about retail crime's connection to larger criminal enterprises.

Retail's Most Wanted is presented by LVT and the Attorney General Alliance.