Shoplifting Rates Surge by 24% in U.S. While Other Crimes Decline

New study shows shoplifting has increased significantly in 2024, contrasting with drops in violent crime and other offenses.

Shoplifting rates rose by 24% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
The increase in shoplifting comes as other crimes like homicide and robbery have returned to or fallen below pre-pandemic levels.
Cities like Boston and Chicago have seen shoplifting rates more than triple since 2020.
Experts suggest economic factors and social media trends may be contributing to the rise in shoplifting.
Despite the drop in violent crime, public perception of safety remains low, with many Americans still feeling unsafe.