House Passes Bill to Address Organized Cargo Theft

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act on May 12. The measure seeks to improve coordination among federal agencies and strengthen tools available to law enforcement. Cargo theft has increased in recent years, with reports indicating daily losses of approximately $18 million for the trucking industry.

Officials have noted that three-quarters of stolen freight is never recovered.

In one case, two trailers carrying $1 million worth of LEGO sets were abandoned in the California desert after a chase. Police apprehended three individuals suspected of hijacking the trucks. Similar thefts have involved high-value consumer goods including lobster, tequila, and skincare products. These incidents have prompted concerns about rising insurance and security costs.

The bill would establish a federal coordination center within the Department of Homeland Security. It would also enhance intelligence sharing and efforts to identify theft networks. Supporters of the legislation include trucking companies, retailers, railroads, and law enforcement groups. The Senate is now considering the measure.