Clackamas County law enforcement agencies periodically conduct retail theft missions targeting shoplifters who steal from local businesses.
On April 3, 2025, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Wilsonville Police Department, arrested 17 people for theft during a one-day investigation that targeted multiple retail stores.
“I want to update you on the status of these efforts to combat retail theft in our county,” said Clackamas County District Attorney John Wentworth.
“Shoplifting is a costly crime that affects both businesses and consumers. Some of these thefts involve goods valued at more than $1,000,” Wentworth said. “My office vigorously prosecutes all retail theft cases referred to us.”
It takes time for criminal cases to work their way through the judicial process. Here’s the status of those arrested on April 3 as of August 20:
- Convictions: 5
- Cases awaiting trial: 5
- Defendants who failed to appear in court: 3
- One case was dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
Three juveniles were contacted and referred to the Juvenile Department for appropriate intervention.
The arrestees were charged with Theft in the Second Degree (value of items taken was $100 or more but less than $1,000) or Theft in the Third Degree (value of items taken was less than $100.)
Theft in the Second Degree is a Class A misdemeanor with a penalty of up to 364 days in jail and a $6,250 fine. Theft in the Third Degree is a Class C misdemeanor with a penalty of up to 30 days in jail and a $1,250 fine.
Source: Clackamas County District Attorney