A big shoplifting operation that swiped nearly $2 million worth of clothes and beauty products from Macy’s and other popular stores across the U.S. has been shut down, authorities revealed on Tuesday. The stolen goods were being resold in New York City and the Dominican Republic, turning the thefts into a global hustle.
Five people from New York are now facing serious charges, including conspiracy and felony possession of stolen items, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.
As Black Friday looms and the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear, Katz had a word of caution for bargain hunters: “If a deal feels too good to be real, it probably is,” she warned.
This kind of organized retail crime doesn’t just hurt businesses—it hits everyday shoppers in the wallet too. Gov. Kathy Hochul shared that retail theft costs businesses a jaw-dropping $100 billion every year. For the average family, that translates to an extra $500 in expenses annually.
The arrests also made history. For the first time, charges were brought under a newly minted law aimed at cracking down on the sale of stolen goods. Gov. Hochul, who signed the law recently, emphasized its importance in fighting organized theft and protecting legitimate businesses.
As the holiday season begins, officials remind shoppers to support trustworthy retailers and keep an eye out for shady deals. After all, the real cost of a “steal” might be higher than you think.