HILLSBORO, Ore. (March 7, 2023) — The Washington County District Attorney’s Office joins the Oregon Organized Retail Crime Task Force in calling for the passage of Senate Bills 318 and 370 to address increasing retail crime in Oregon.

The Oregon Organized Retail Crime Task Force is a collection of key stakeholders, including Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton, who have met over the past six months to discuss ways to address the growing problem of organized retail crime in Oregon.  Task force members include law enforcement leaders along with business and labor leaders.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office is proud to support the passing of Senate Bills 318 and 340.  These two bills, taken together, provide funding for increased enforcement and better communication between Oregon’s Department of Justice, local police departments, and retailers.  The bill also fixes gaps in Oregon’s current criminal code, making it easier to prosecute criminal organizations involved in organized retail theft. 

“I am keenly aware of the challenges Oregon faces from increased organized retail crime,” said Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton. “Retail theft impacts all members of our community, including both large and small businesses and employees and customers alike.  As the nature and scope of these crimes change, so to must our laws evolve, which is why passage of SB 318 and 340 is important.”

A public hearing for Senate Bills 318 and 340 will be held in the Senate Judiciary Committee on

Wednesday, March 8 at 1:00 p.m. 

A copy of District Attorney Barton’s written testimony can be viewed here.