38 shoplifters arrested in 2 days in Cherry Hill, NJ — store owners ‘ecstatic’

The Cherry Hill Police Department says store owners in their municipality are "ecstatic" after a targeted effort to reduce shoplifting resulted in over three dozen people being arrested.

Dozens of Cherry Hill, NJ, Shoplifters Arrested

Authorities partnered with over 20 local merchants on May 21st and 22nd, 38 people were arrested, including several suspected of being involved with organized retail theft rings, and tens of thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandise was recovered.

Cherry Hill Police Chief Robert Kempf reported the local retailers, who have agreed to combine forces with police on a new program dubbed the "Cherry Hill Retail Theft Initiative," were "ecstatic" over the early results.

The idea for the initiative began last November when officials met with retailers to discuss ways to combat shoplifting.

The plan they developed is simple yet effective:

Store security personnel and management focus on surveillance inside their stores, while plain clothes Cherry Hill Detectives and Patrol Officers are stationed in the immediate vicinity to verify and apprehend any suspected thieves. The basic idea is to outsmart and overwhelm the assailants before they have an opportunity to flee or fight.

And while law enforcement and retailers are working hand-in-hand, the public continues to play a role in reducing shoplifting, too.

The Cherry Hill Police Department encourages anyone witnessing a theft, suspicious activity, or any crime to immediately call 9-1-1. Non-emergency tips can be given to police by calling (856) 665-1200 or tips@cherryhillpolice.com .