(Rapid City, SD) — Rapid City Police are stepping up efforts to fight back against a rise in shoplifting. A national study shows retail theft has nearly doubled since 2019, with losses up 90 percent. Rapid City is seeing the same trend. Property crimes supervisor Philip Koch says stronger partnerships with local stores are helping, and most reported thefts are being solved. Still, the most stolen items disappearing from shelves are alcohol, clothing, tools, and electronics. Koch says many cases involve repeat offenders, and urges the public to report thefts quickly, either by calling 911 or using the city’s online tool.
