BUTLER TWP — In 2019, retail businesses across the nation reported $67 billion in stolen merchandise.

One of every 11 people has shoplifted, and one of every 48 employees has stolen from his or her employer.

Butler Township police Det. Max Wittlinger shared those alarming statistics Monday with a group of owners of small and large retail stores who will get help from the Butler County Chamber of Commerce to curb retail theft as the holiday shopping season ramps up.

Township Commissioner Dave Zarnick invited Jordan Grady, chamber executive director, to join the meeting and help retailers share information about shoplifters.

Grady said businesses in any area of the county can send names and photos of people caught shoplifting in their stores, and the chamber will make a list of them and share the list with other businesses.

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