CPD shoplifting initiative leads to 37 arrests, 91 cases cleared or warrant issued
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- CPD shoplifting initiative resulted in 37 arrests and 91 cases cleared or warrant-issued since June.
- Department partnered with 20+ retailers and achieved 72% clearance rate for 152 assigned shoplifting cases.
The Columbus Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit launched a shoplifting initiative in June aimed at addressing retail theft and strengthening partnerships with local retailers ahead of the holiday shopping season.
According to CPD, the department has received approximately 630 shoplifting reports so far in 2026.
Since the initiative began, Property Crimes investigators have been assigned specifically to shoplifting cases and have worked with local retailers and loss prevention teams.
CPD said more than 45 asset protection and loss prevention representatives representing more than 20 stores attended a meeting with investigators on July 7. Another meeting on Aug. 25 drew more than 40 participants both in person and online.
Since June, investigators have reported 152 shoplifting cases assigned, 63 cases cleared, 37 subjects arrested, 58 outstanding arrest warrants and a 41% current clearance rate.
When cases connected to outstanding warrants are included, CPD said 91 cases have either been cleared or resulted in warrants being issued, bringing the clearance rate to approximately 72%. The figures do not include arrests made by CPD patrol officers.
Investigators also conducted a warrant roundup on July 28 that resulted in seven arrests and nine cases cleared.
On Aug. 8 and 9, investigators conducted an undercover detail at a local retail store. CPD said the operation resulted in the arrest of one person who was caught stealing merchandise.
The Property Crimes Unit is also using its Facebook page to share surveillance images in an effort to identify suspected theft offenders.
With the holiday shopping season approaching, CPD said investigators will continue working with local retailers to address repeat offenders and reduce shoplifting throughout Columbus.
CPD has also released a video recap of the initiative.
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