MPD: Cordova area sees 60% increase in retail theft arrests with the help of retail theft taskforce

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - A task force in one Memphis police precinct is making a major impact on retail theft with the help of business owners.

Command staff at the Appling Farms station say enough is enough when it comes to retail theft in their precinct.

“The word is getting out that in Appling Farms station, if you come and steal, that we will catch you,” said Sergeant Vaughn Brown.

Major Byron Braxton says arrests for retail thefts in the Cordova area are up 60% since last year.

“We all decided we weren’t going to allow it,” said Major Braxton. “And as they say, what you allow, you encourage. Well, we’re no longer encouraging it. We’re going to stop it.”

They credit it to the Appling Farms station’s Retail Theft Taskforce and their Retail Theft Collaborative with area businesses.

“We are out there, and we’re making a big difference,” said Sergeant Brown. “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. Shoplifting is hurting all of us. It makes products, the prices go up. Not only are we seeing increased prices, but we have businesses thinking about leaving. That’s crucial to our city and to the economy in our city to keep these businesses here.”

More than 50 businesses with 160 loss prevention representatives, officers and managers are in constant communication with police about thefts in the area.

At a collaborative meeting Tuesday, Sergeant Brown said they’ve handled 1,500 cases this year alone and says sharing pictures and information on thefts can eventually lead to arrests, prosecution, and at times, banning shoplifters from businesses altogether.

The goal is to make a greater and safer community by protecting customers and employees, and helping businesses thrive.

If you’re a business owner in the Cordova area and would like to join the collaboration or find out more information on the task force, call (901) 636-4400.

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