NW Ohio Times

State Representative Haraz N. Ghanbari, a Republican from Perrysburg, has announced his plans to introduce a new legislation called the Fight Organized Retail Crime & Empower Law Enforcement (FORCE) Act in Ohio. The purpose of this bill is to combat the rising losses from organized retail crime and protect the safety and well-being of Ohio retailers and consumers.

Ghanbari emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of organized theft rings targeting retailers and communities in Ohio. He stated, "Ohio is not going to tolerate our retailers and communities being preyed upon by organized theft rings. We are not going to stand idly by." The FORCE Act aims to provide a comprehensive approach to tackle organized retail crime by updating Ohio laws and policies and empowering local law enforcement and prosecutors to respond effectively to these incidents.

The introduction of the FORCE Act has received positive feedback from industry leaders in Ohio. Gordon Gough, President/CEO of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, expressed his support for the legislation. He highlighted the impact of organized retail crime on not only the financial aspect but also the safety and well-being of customers and store associates. Gough stated, "This legislation will give Ohio law enforcement officials and our judicial system more tools to apprehend and punish criminals while protecting consumers and retailers."

In a collaborative effort, State Senators George Lang and Michael Rulli, both Republicans, are planning to introduce a companion bill in the Ohio Senate. This demonstrates a unified approach from multiple lawmakers to address the issue of organized retail crime in the state.

The FORCE Act aims to provide a robust framework to combat organized retail crime in Ohio. With its focus on empowering law enforcement and prosecutors, this legislation is poised to have a significant impact on deterring and apprehending criminals involved in these theft rings. Through collaboration between the General Assembly and industry leaders, Ohio is taking a proactive stance in protecting its retailers and consumers from the detrimental effects of organized retail crime.

As the FORCE Act moves forward, Representative Ghanbari and his colleagues in the General Assembly are hopeful for its successful passage. This legislation is a crucial step in safeguarding Ohio's retail industry and ensuring the safety and well-being of its communities.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/haraz-n-ghanbari/news/rep-haraz-n-ghanbari-to-introduce-the-force-act-117265