Retail theft surge fuels $4.4 billion shadow economy in New York state
![Retail theft surge fuels $4.4 billion shadow economy in New York state](https://twt-thumbs.washtimes.com/media/image/2024/03/20/National_Retail_Federation_Sales_Outlook_98953_s1440x960.jpg?f72536d07237fdd262042ae8f5e6e6de3b865f3c)
Amid the bustling streets of New York, a surge in shoplifting has cast a shadow over the retail industry, culminating in a staggering annual loss of $4.4 billion for local businesses.