Can Targeting Shoplifters Stop Violent Crime?

If you've shopped in the Albuquerque-metro area anytime in the last few years, you've probably noticed at least a few security changes at most big box stores. Whether its more security guards, police officers or even camera trailers with flashing blue and red lights, a lot of New Mexico's supermarkets, pharmacies and other stores have increasingly been targets for brazen shoplifting. In the summer of 2021, the New Mexico Attorney General's Office announced it would target this issue, calling it "organized retail crime," while dispelling the idea that the suspects are "just petty thieves."

So is that new approach making shopping safer? Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret joins Gabby and Chris on the podcast to discuss her recent KRQE News 13 Investigation, featuring a ride-along with agents from the AG’s Office and the Albuquerque Police Department. 

What's on your mind? Like something we did? Got an idea for an episode? Let us know. Email us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on Twitter at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM.  For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our website: KRQE.com/podcasts.