Episode 2: Finding Solutions to Retail Crime

In Episode 2 of Cross-Examination, Ted Asregadoo and Deputy District Attorney Brian Feinberg explore the key differences between organized retail theft and shoplifting, along with a local initiative to combat retail crime. They’re joined by Chief of Inspectors Arnold Threets from the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office, who explains how organized retail crime operates through complex criminal networks, making it a serious felony. Chief Threets also discusses how Home Depot in Richmond/El Cerrito partnered with local law enforcement and the DA’s Office to reduce theft at the store. However, as crime continues to evolve, so must enforcement strategies. In the second segment, criminologist Samuel E. DeWitt from the American Institutes for Research delves into the psychological and societal effects of crime. He explains why crime evokes strong emotions, even among those who aren’t direct victims, pointing to how media coverage—especially extreme cases following the "if it bleeds, it leads" mindset—triggers fear and anger. Dr. DeWitt also discusses the various factors that influence crime rates, such as employment, poverty, and demographic trends, as well as the impact of laws, policies, and community services. The issues discussed in this episode show that offenses like retail crime are often complex, which means finding practical solutions to address those complexities – even when they evolve. Mentioned in the episode by Samuel DeWitt, John Roman’s Substack post: 100 Ideas for Reducing Crime in Cities—A Blueprint for Action