Retail theft is becoming a huge issue in Illinois and State Senator Doris Turner is joining other officials from the Illinois Retail Merchants Association and Attorney General’s office to discuss a legislative proposal that would curb organized retail crime in Illinois.  

Under the proposal, prosecutors would have additional opportunities to bring charges against offenders regardless of where the crime takes place.  For example, if conspiracy, theft, and selling occurred in different jurisdictions, each jurisdiction would have the ability to prosecute the entire crime.  The Illinois Attorney General would also have the ability to prosecute via a statewide grand jury. 

Work is also being done to prevent stolen goods from being sold online, including requiring third party sellers to verify users’ identity with bank account numbers and other information.  Sellers who don’t comply may be suspended.  The House bill is 1091 and awaits consideration by the Senate.