Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon(ORCAOR)

Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon was created in 2019 in response to the rapid increase in Organized Retail Crime (ORC) happening in the state of Oregon. ORCAOR is comprised of Law Enforcement, Retailers and Crime Analysts and prosecutors who work collaboratively to share information, investigate and ultimately bring offenders to justice. In addition to the reaction to crimes, ORCAOR works proactively to influence law makers at the local, state and Federal level to enhance existing laws and sentencing guidelines. ORCAOR also works to educate and influence legislatively bodies on new laws that will support safer communities by minimizing the impact and presence of those looking to commit Organized Retail Crime in our state. ORC is the large-scale theft of retail merchandise with the intent to resell the items for financial gain. ORC often involves a criminal enterprise employing a group of individuals, (often homeless, addicts or other at-risk populations) who steal enormous quantities of merchandise from a number of stores and a fencing operation that converts the stolen goods into cash. Stolen items can be sold through a number of online auction sites, reseller sites at flea markets, the world’s largest online marketplaces, dark web markets and even to other retailers. In addition to targeting stores, ORC gangs engage in cargo theft activities. Organized rings are often involved in other crimes within the community, including narcotics, terrorism, money laundering and human trafficking.