2026 LP Hall Award Finalist page
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Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: Industry collaboration
INDUSTRY COLLABORATION - FINALIST #1:
Southeast Chapter - IAI - Multi-retailer Collaboration
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding industry collaboration:
- The IAI Southeast Chapter has built a strong retailer-driven collaboration that reflects how loss prevention leaders, law enforcement, and cross-functional partners can work together to strengthen training, investigations, and information sharing across the Southeast region. I nominate the Chapter for the LP Industry Collaboration Award because of its consistent work bringing together retailers, investigators, law enforcement partners, and supporting business functions to advance practical, real-world loss prevention efforts. Why they should be considered:
• Retailer Law Enforcement Partnership: The Chapter creates opportunities for retail LP professionals and law enforcement partners to connect, share trends, discuss investigative challenges, and strengthen working relationships that support more effective response to retail crime.
• Multi-Company Information Sharing: Through regional events, board engagement, and peer-to-peer networking, the Chapter brings together professionals from multiple retail organizations to share best practices, current challenges, and investigative approaches that benefit the broader LP community.
• Training & Investigative Impact: The Chapter has delivered educational programming focused on investigations, interviewing, organized retail crime, workplace violence, and other timely issues impacting retail loss prevention. These sessions help professionals improve consistency, strengthen documentation, and enhance investigative outcomes.
• ORC & Cross-Functional Coordination: The Chapter has expanded collaboration beyond traditional LP audiences by including HR, compliance, safety, legal, and operations partners, recognizing that complex retail incidents often require coordinated response across multiple functions.
• Measurable Value: The Chapter’s work has increased engagement across the Southeast region, expanded access to practical training, strengthened retailer-to-retailer and retailer-to-law-enforcement relationships, and created a forum for sharing strategies that improve how organizations prevent, investigate, and respond to retail crime.
The IAI Southeast Chapter demonstrates the type of collaborative, retailer-driven effort this award was created to recognize. Its work strengthens the LP community by connecting retailers, law enforcement, and corporate partners around shared strategy, practical training, and improved investigative response. One recent example of this impact was the Southeast Chapter’s 2026 regional event in Boca Raton, which brought together retail LP, HR, investigations, and cross-functional partners for training and discussion focused on real issues impacting the industry. The event also offered continuing education credit, creating added professional-development value while strengthening relationships across companies and disciplines.
• Retailer Law Enforcement Partnership: The Chapter creates opportunities for retail LP professionals and law enforcement partners to connect, share trends, discuss investigative challenges, and strengthen working relationships that support more effective response to retail crime.
• Multi-Company Information Sharing: Through regional events, board engagement, and peer-to-peer networking, the Chapter brings together professionals from multiple retail organizations to share best practices, current challenges, and investigative approaches that benefit the broader LP community.
• Training & Investigative Impact: The Chapter has delivered educational programming focused on investigations, interviewing, organized retail crime, workplace violence, and other timely issues impacting retail loss prevention. These sessions help professionals improve consistency, strengthen documentation, and enhance investigative outcomes.
• ORC & Cross-Functional Coordination: The Chapter has expanded collaboration beyond traditional LP audiences by including HR, compliance, safety, legal, and operations partners, recognizing that complex retail incidents often require coordinated response across multiple functions.
• Measurable Value: The Chapter’s work has increased engagement across the Southeast region, expanded access to practical training, strengthened retailer-to-retailer and retailer-to-law-enforcement relationships, and created a forum for sharing strategies that improve how organizations prevent, investigate, and respond to retail crime.
The IAI Southeast Chapter demonstrates the type of collaborative, retailer-driven effort this award was created to recognize. Its work strengthens the LP community by connecting retailers, law enforcement, and corporate partners around shared strategy, practical training, and improved investigative response. One recent example of this impact was the Southeast Chapter’s 2026 regional event in Boca Raton, which brought together retail LP, HR, investigations, and cross-functional partners for training and discussion focused on real issues impacting the industry. The event also offered continuing education credit, creating added professional-development value while strengthening relationships across companies and disciplines.
- This nomination recognizes the retailer-led collaboration of loss prevention leaders, investigators, and law enforcement partners across the Southeast region who work together through the IAI Southeast Chapter to strengthen investigations, information sharing, and coordinated response to retail crime. Over the past year, this collaboration has brought together LP professionals from multiple retail organizations with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to address organized retail crime, internal investigations, workplace violence, interview techniques, and investigative best practices through regional training events, educational sessions, and peer-to-peer information sharing. The work is driven by active retail LP leaders who identify current challenges impacting the industry, coordinate relevant training, secure speakers, and create opportunities for retailers and law enforcement to connect across jurisdictions. Law enforcement partners also participate directly by sharing case experience, legal considerations, and investigative strategies that improve coordination and outcomes. The IAI Southeast Chapter serves as the platform for this work, but the collaboration itself is led by retailers and investigators committed to improving the broader LP community. The group has also expanded cross-functional participation by including HR, compliance, safety, and legal partners, recognizing that effective retail investigations often require more than one department or agency working together. This effort reflects the purpose of the LP Industry Collaboration Award because it demonstrates a practical, retailer-driven, multi-agency partnership focused on strengthening investigations, improving communication, and advancing industry-wide response to retail crime.
- The IAI Southeast Chapter is a strong nominee for the LP Hall Industry Collaboration Award because it exemplifies the best of what retailer-led and law-enforcement collaboration can accomplish when professionals come together with a shared purpose. The chapter has created a practical and effective forum where retailers, law enforcement partners, and investigative professionals can exchange information, identify emerging threats, and coordinate responses to organized retail crime and other complex investigations. Rather than operating in silos, the Southeast Chapter has helped build a collaborative network where trust, communication, and action drive meaningful results. Its strength lies in the diversity of its participation. The chapter brings together professionals from loss prevention, asset protection, law enforcement, human resources, legal, compliance, safety, and other investigative areas. This cross-functional involvement allows members to view challenges from multiple perspectives and develop more complete, responsible, and effective solutions. By creating space for these disciplines to work together, the chapter has elevated the quality of investigative coordination across the region. The Southeast Chapter has also demonstrated a strong commitment to training and professional development. Through education, shared case insights, and peer-to-peer learning, the chapter helps members strengthen investigative skills, improve communication, and apply best practices in real-world situations. This focus directly supports better case outcomes, stronger partnerships, and a more prepared LP community. The chapter’s multi-company partnership model has produced measurable value by improving information sharing, increasing awareness of ORC activity, strengthening retailer-law enforcement relationships, and supporting more coordinated investigations. Its impact extends beyond individual companies or agencies. It benefits the broader LP industry by showing how collaboration can improve prevention, response, and accountability. For these reasons, the IAI Southeast Chapter deserves recognition for its outstanding contribution to the industry. The chapter has not only encouraged collaboration but also operationalized it. It has turned relationships into results, training into action, and shared information into safer, stronger communities. That is exactly the spirit of the LP Hall Industry Collaboration Award.
INDUSTRY COLLABORATION - FINALIST #2:
National orc blitz day - Led by CCROC
Here is what people are saying about this amazing industry collaboration:
- Spearheaded by the Cook County Regional Organized Crime Task Force (CCROC) and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office in the Chicago market, a nationwide crackdown on organized retail crime, or “National ORC Blitz,” was implemented on May 30th, 2025 and continued through the first week of June to promote collaboration between private retailers, law enforcement, and prosecutors working to improve public safety and disrupt organized crime networks. All of the major retail associations supported and participated as well with massive coordination efforts Organized Retail Crime Associations (ORCAs) across the country with communications also supported through the LP Magazine ‘ORCAs in Action’ initiative.
While coordinated local “blitz” operations are a common occurrence in markets across the country when combatting organized retail crime, this National ORC Blitz is considered the first of its kind. The operation was met with overwhelming support and enthusiasm, and the team at CCROC did an outstanding job of putting the event together. As part of the ORC Blitz, more than 100 law enforcement agencies and approximately 60 retailers across 28 states took part in the national blitz operations.
Highlights from the campaign included more than 500 felony and misdemeanor arrests related to retail crime, the recovery of more than $130,000 in stolen goods during the blitz operation, and numerous stolen vehicles, narcotics, and weapons that were also seized during the arrests.
Perhaps most importantly, campaigns such as the National ORC Blitz highlight the power of partnerships, cooperation, teamwork, and planning in the fight against organized retail crime. By taking a proactive approach, it highlights the gravity and extent of the problem. It shows the community that we are willing and able to address the issue. It offers opportunities to gather additional intelligence and build cases. It sends a clear message to ORC crews that we are watching and there are consequences. And it allows us to continue to build upon the relationships that lead to meaningful results.
While coordinated local “blitz” operations are a common occurrence in markets across the country when combatting organized retail crime, this National ORC Blitz is considered the first of its kind. The operation was met with overwhelming support and enthusiasm, and the team at CCROC did an outstanding job of putting the event together. As part of the ORC Blitz, more than 100 law enforcement agencies and approximately 60 retailers across 28 states took part in the national blitz operations.
Highlights from the campaign included more than 500 felony and misdemeanor arrests related to retail crime, the recovery of more than $130,000 in stolen goods during the blitz operation, and numerous stolen vehicles, narcotics, and weapons that were also seized during the arrests.
Perhaps most importantly, campaigns such as the National ORC Blitz highlight the power of partnerships, cooperation, teamwork, and planning in the fight against organized retail crime. By taking a proactive approach, it highlights the gravity and extent of the problem. It shows the community that we are willing and able to address the issue. It offers opportunities to gather additional intelligence and build cases. It sends a clear message to ORC crews that we are watching and there are consequences. And it allows us to continue to build upon the relationships that lead to meaningful results.
- As a retailer that participated in the National ORC Blitz, I wanted to nominate this initiative because it showed what can happen when retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and ORC associations truly work together toward the same goal.
Organized retail crime has become a major challenge for retailers across the country. These are not isolated theft incidents anymore. Many of the groups involved are organized, mobile, and operating across multiple cities and states. Trying to address that level of activity individually can be difficult, even for large retailers. The National ORC Blitz helped change that.
Led by the Cook County Organized Retail Crime Task Force along with law enforcement and retail partners from across the country, this effort brought together agencies and retailers in a coordinated national operation focused on ORC offenders and criminal groups. For those of us participating, one of the biggest benefits was the level of communication and information sharing that took place before, during, and after the Blitz.
Investigators were able to connect cases, compare trends, identify repeat offenders, and work with partners outside of their normal markets. Law enforcement agencies shared intelligence across jurisdictions, and retailers had the opportunity to support larger investigations that may not have moved forward otherwise. The operation also helped strengthen relationships between local investigators, prosecutors, and retail partners that continue today.
What stood out most was that this effort was not just about arrests or merchandise recovery. It created real collaboration and showed that ORC cannot be solved by one retailer or one agency alone. It takes coordination, trust, and consistent communication between the public and private sectors.
The National ORC Blitz gave the industry a strong example of what effective collaboration can look like on a national level. It brought together organizations that face the same problems every day and turned those partnerships into action. That is why this initiative deserves recognition for Industry Collaboration.
Organized retail crime has become a major challenge for retailers across the country. These are not isolated theft incidents anymore. Many of the groups involved are organized, mobile, and operating across multiple cities and states. Trying to address that level of activity individually can be difficult, even for large retailers. The National ORC Blitz helped change that.
Led by the Cook County Organized Retail Crime Task Force along with law enforcement and retail partners from across the country, this effort brought together agencies and retailers in a coordinated national operation focused on ORC offenders and criminal groups. For those of us participating, one of the biggest benefits was the level of communication and information sharing that took place before, during, and after the Blitz.
Investigators were able to connect cases, compare trends, identify repeat offenders, and work with partners outside of their normal markets. Law enforcement agencies shared intelligence across jurisdictions, and retailers had the opportunity to support larger investigations that may not have moved forward otherwise. The operation also helped strengthen relationships between local investigators, prosecutors, and retail partners that continue today.
What stood out most was that this effort was not just about arrests or merchandise recovery. It created real collaboration and showed that ORC cannot be solved by one retailer or one agency alone. It takes coordination, trust, and consistent communication between the public and private sectors.
The National ORC Blitz gave the industry a strong example of what effective collaboration can look like on a national level. It brought together organizations that face the same problems every day and turned those partnerships into action. That is why this initiative deserves recognition for Industry Collaboration.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: community champion
community champion - FINALIST #1:
Chris Schkade, Major Crimes Investigation Manager - Walgreens
Here is what people are saying about this champion giver:
- I am honored to nominate Chris Schkade, Major Crimes Investigations Manager at Walgreens, as your Community Champion for 2026. Chris's dedicated efforts in community safety and collaboration exemplify the qualities valued in this recognition. It is clear to everyone who knows Chris that he is deeply committed to serving communities throughout the South-Central US, benefiting communities across the US. Chris takes action every day and is a vital member of various organizations, including GGCIA, LAMAORCA, and Texas ORCA. He connects not only leaders in business, retail, and education, to name a few- but also fosters collaboration among security and operational teams, federal agencies, and local/state/national law enforcement—working together to create safer spaces for all of us. In fact, LAMA ORCA was a national award winner thanks to Chris and his team's efforts. Chris knows how to bring people together! He invites leading investigators to share insights on complex cases ranging from gift card fraud to the Lottery to high-profile Amazon investigations, which I thought was nothing short of incredible. Additionally, he shares resources like top technologies in the sector that are helping his organization and others stay on top of the latest in crime-fighting. The remarkable impact Chris has made in communities, including my own in Houston, highlights his leadership. His coordinated 'Blitzes' have resulted in an average of almost 100 cases per blitz and uniting a wide range of notable retailers, including Target, Kroger, CVS, and TJX. His significant efforts to aid law enforcement in dis-mantling organized crime rings that are funneling millions in stolen goods abroad demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the industry and community. Chris is also committed to recognizing hard work and excellence. Honoring law enforcement and LP teams for their relentless efforts and thanking them in front of their peers for their hard work and dedication. He helps us demonstrate just how much we appreciate them. As someone who attends numerous conferences, works closely with community leaders, and was a former merchant for TJX and other retailers, Chris exemplifies community leadership and dedication. Supporting his nomination not only recognizes those achievements but may also inspire others to contribute as well. Let's celebrate his ongoing contributions and help me support Chris Schkade's nomination for this well-deserved recognition as Community Champion!
Community champion - FINALIST #2:
Doug Billiot, regional asset protection manager - hibbett
Here is what people are saying about this awesome do-gooder:
- Doug Billiot is someone many people across the loss prevention industry know and respect, not just for his work professionally, but for the way he consistently gives back to others and supports his community. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Doug through industry events, conversations, and mutual connections, and one thing that always stands out is how genuine he is when it comes to helping people.
Doug has built a reputation as someone who quietly steps in when communities are hurting. Whether supporting fundraising efforts for families impacted by tragedy, helping veteran-related causes, or organizing local charity initiatives, he regularly uses his time, relationships, and personal resources to make a difference. What makes it even more meaningful is that he does these things without looking for attention or recognition.
In recent years, Doug has helped organize and support several fundraising efforts across Texas tied to disaster relief and community assistance. He has brought people together through creative community-driven events and donations, helping raise money and awareness for families facing extremely difficult situations. He also continues to stay involved in causes supporting military veterans, something that clearly remains important to him following his own years of military service.
Beyond the fundraising and volunteer work, Doug is simply the kind of person who connects with people naturally. He remembers people, checks in on them, and takes an interest in what others are going through. That’s a big reason why so many people in this industry speak so highly of him.
Doug is deserving of this recognition because his commitment to helping others extends far beyond his professional responsibilities. He consistently uses his platform, relationships, and personal time to support people and communities in need, and he does it in a way that is sincere, humble, and impactful. The positive difference he continues to make in the lives of others is easy to see, and it is what makes him such a strong nominee for the Loss Prevention Community Champion Award.
Doug has built a reputation as someone who quietly steps in when communities are hurting. Whether supporting fundraising efforts for families impacted by tragedy, helping veteran-related causes, or organizing local charity initiatives, he regularly uses his time, relationships, and personal resources to make a difference. What makes it even more meaningful is that he does these things without looking for attention or recognition.
In recent years, Doug has helped organize and support several fundraising efforts across Texas tied to disaster relief and community assistance. He has brought people together through creative community-driven events and donations, helping raise money and awareness for families facing extremely difficult situations. He also continues to stay involved in causes supporting military veterans, something that clearly remains important to him following his own years of military service.
Beyond the fundraising and volunteer work, Doug is simply the kind of person who connects with people naturally. He remembers people, checks in on them, and takes an interest in what others are going through. That’s a big reason why so many people in this industry speak so highly of him.
Doug is deserving of this recognition because his commitment to helping others extends far beyond his professional responsibilities. He consistently uses his platform, relationships, and personal time to support people and communities in need, and he does it in a way that is sincere, humble, and impactful. The positive difference he continues to make in the lives of others is easy to see, and it is what makes him such a strong nominee for the Loss Prevention Community Champion Award.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: solution provider innovator
Solution provider - innovator - FINALIST #1:
alpha vision - hedgie bartol
Here is what people are saying about this outside-the-box innovator:
- THedgie Bartol stands out as a rare kind of innovator—someone who doesn’t just understand retail from the outside, but has lived it for over two decades. That experience shows up in the way he approaches problem-solving at Alpha Vision. His perspective isn’t theoretical; it’s rooted in the day-to-day realities retailers face, from shrink and safety concerns to operational inefficiencies that most vendors overlook. What makes Hedgie’s work especially impactful is how he bridges real-world retail challenges with emerging AI capabilities in a way that actually works on the ground. Under his leadership in business development, Alpha Vision has taken Agentic AI beyond buzzwords and into practical use cases. Whether it’s monitoring parking lots for suspicious activity, identifying theft-related behavior in-store, or streamlining logistics like truck check-ins and yard management, the solutions are designed with operators in mind. They’re not just innovative—they’re usable. Hedgie also plays a key role in translating retailer pain points into actionable development priorities. That tight feedback loop between the field and the product is a big reason Alpha Vision continues to evolve quickly and stay relevant in a fast-changing environment. It’s not about selling a product—it’s about solving problems that retailers deal with every single day. Behind the scenes, that innovation is matched by an intense level of commitment from the company’s leadership. CEO Song Cao is known for putting in relentless hours, personally coding and continuously refining (and even reinvesting in) the platform to ensure it delivers on real use cases. That level of hands-on dedication is rare, and Hedgie complements it by making sure those technical capabilities align with what the market truly needs. Together, that combination of deep retail expertise and relentless product execution is what sets Alpha Vision apart—and Hedgie Bartol is right at the center of it. His ability to connect operational insight with forward-thinking technology makes him a clear choice for the LP Hall Solution Provider Innovator of the Year.
- I nominate Alpha Vision for their innovative use of AI-driven technology to enhance loss prevention, investigations, and operational efficiency. By leveraging advanced AI features such pattern recognition, and real-time analytics, they improved reporting accuracy, accelerated investigations, and strengthened collaboration across our teams and law enforcement. Their leadership in adopting and integrating these tools created measurable results, improved safety, and positioned their organization as a forward-thinking leader in modern, technology-driven operations. Their innovation, impact, and ability to drive meaningful change make them highly deserving of this recognition.
Solution Provider - innovator - FINALIST #2:
panoptyc - mac bolak
Here is what people are saying about this forward-thinking Solution Provider:
- Mac is a young but incredibly intelligent and highly driven chief executive officer. His start up organization has made tremendous strides and gained impressive traction.In just the few years, they have existed. His tools and methodology, I have the potential to revolutionize the way theft is identified in grocery standard retail in micromarket environments. This includes but is not necessarily limited to external theft issues. Internal theft issues at the point of sale and even costly operational dysfunctions. His tool is also the first i've seen that in a short period of time may help the industry identify free bagging at the front registers... which is something the industry has been sorely lacking for many, many years.
First and foremost Mac, he is a listener. He engages with high-profile individuals throughout the industry and actively listens to them and their input on their needs. Their wish lists and how he could best position his organization to assist. While perhaps not a household name as of yet, I anticipate everyone in the Retail industry, will be knowing the name "Panoptyc" within the next five years. They will be famous for their ability to generate measurable ROI for their clients and the fact that they have nearly eliminated the plague of false positives being sent out to the field saving time labor and other frustrations for people within our industry.
First and foremost Mac, he is a listener. He engages with high-profile individuals throughout the industry and actively listens to them and their input on their needs. Their wish lists and how he could best position his organization to assist. While perhaps not a household name as of yet, I anticipate everyone in the Retail industry, will be knowing the name "Panoptyc" within the next five years. They will be famous for their ability to generate measurable ROI for their clients and the fact that they have nearly eliminated the plague of false positives being sent out to the field saving time labor and other frustrations for people within our industry.
- Mac bootstrapped Panoptyc in 2019 and grew it to catch more theft in the Micro-Markets LP space. In 2025 Panoptyc caught more validated retail theft than any other their competitors. His vision at Panoptyc is to protect communities and to help stop $100B in shrink.
- Mac is the founder of Panoptyc, which is one of the most innovative companies in the LP space right now, bringing AI and computer vision to the industry in novel new ways - a true source of innovation in this industry and beyond.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: INVESTIGATION OF THE YEAR
INvestigation of the year - FINALIST #1:
Johnson City, NY RICO Investigation - Dick's sporting goods
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding investigation:
- The DICK’S Sporting Goods Investigations Team executed a meticulously detailed and exceptionally coordinated investigation that directly enabled the first-ever RICO charges filed by the Broome County District Attorney’s Office. This case exposed a sophisticated internal theft scheme feeding a larger criminal network, ultimately revealing how organized retail crime was being used to finance gang related financial crimes. The investigation began in early 2025 when an alert teammate reported suspicious behavior—an example of strong store culture and frontline awareness. LP Analyst Costello conducted a comprehensive analytical review, identifying a clear pattern of unauthorized markdowns and merchandise passing. Her work connected two employees to a coordinated effort to funnel merchandise to external gang members over a two-month period. The combined theft impact exceeded $80,000, with significant profit loss to the store. In early 2025, Field Investigations Managers Pacchioli and Gilmer conducted structured internal interviews at the Johnson City Store. Their preparation, evidence organization, and case presentation were so thorough that one employee provided a full written disclosure, detailed the scope of the scheme, and agreed to repay the losses. Their vehicle—containing stolen merchandise—was seized pending a search warrant. The second employee attempted to flee but was intercepted by Johnson City Police, and their vehicle was also impounded. Both vehicles contained fraudulently obtained merchandise, contributing to an $18,000 recovery tied directly to the investigative work completed by the DICK’S team. What set this investigation apart was the turnkey case package handed to law enforcement. The DICK’S team provided complete timelines, transaction analysis, digital evidence, interview documentation, and subject linkage—allowing Johnson City Police and the Broome County DA’s Office to immediately expand the case. Their work revealed six external subjects tied to a local gang engaged in broader financial crimes. This intelligence enabled prosecutors to pursue RICO charges, a historic milestone for the county. Two external subjects, Damani Mizell and Lyteik Gadson, were ultimately sentenced to 3–6 years in prison, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the investigation. This case stands as a model of investigative excellence, cross agency collaboration, and the critical role retail investigations play in dismantling organized criminal networks. For its precision, complexity, and precedent setting outcome, it deserves recognition as Investigation of the Year.
INvestigation of the year - FINALIST #2:
ORC Investigation - Northern California's "Little Man Crew" - EssilorLuxottica
Here is what people are saying about this awesome investigation:
- A multi-agency investigation led by Jose Moreno (EssilorLuxottica – Regional Manager of Investigations) uncovered a violent Organized Retail Crime (ORC) ring known as the “Little Man Crew,” responsible for nearly $1.94 million in Sunglass Hut losses across Northern California. Since April 2024, the crew has been tied to 59 incidents targeting other high-end retailers including Lululemon, Alo Yoga, LensCrafters, and Victoria’s Secret. Initially operating in small groups during business hours, the suspects concealed merchandise in plastic bags. Over time, their tactics escalated to violent confrontations, including smashing display cases and threatening store associates. The crew is affiliated with the Klapshit gang of Antioch, and conflict with other gangs have contributed to a surge in aggressive behavior. Law Enforcement Investigators used ALPR technology, social media analysis, and a recovered cell phone to identify suspects and link them to multiple thefts and a gang-related shooting. The case was assigned to the CHP Organized Retail Theft Task Force, with Contra Costa County taking lead jurisdiction. As of September 2025, 11 suspects have pled guilty, receiving sentences of six years or more, with several facing criminal strikes. Charges include robbery, grand theft, conspiracy, and gang enhancements. Additional prosecutions are underway in Santa Clara County, with more filings expected in the coming weeks. By leveraging ALPR technology, social media analysis, and coordinated efforts between law enforcement and Jose Moreno —including the CHP Organized Retail Theft Task Force and Contra Costa County authorities—the case resulted in 11 guilty pleas, multi-year sentences, and ongoing prosecutions continuing in 2026. This outcome demonstrates how strong collaboration between retailers and law enforcement can not only dismantle violent ORC crews but also restore safety, deter future criminal activity, and provide meaningful long-term protection for stores, associates, and communities.
INvestigation of the year - FINALIST #3:
Smoke on the Water & Ring of Fire - Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services with home depot & Others
Here is what people are saying about this amazing investigation:
- In 2022, FDACS Ryan Vaughn, then a driven and humble agent, met with ORC investigators to learn about the complexities of Organized Retail Crime and the collaborative efforts between retailers and law enforcement. He did not just adopt cases; he became a trusted partner, working closely with ORC investigators and statewide prosecutors to build solid cases aimed at securing maximum penalties, asset forfeiture, and restitution for victims. Vaughn immersed himself in retail terminology, investigative tools, and suspect behaviors, always pushing beyond the arrest of boosters to uncover the broader criminal networks behind them. Just one example of his many accomplishments is this outstanding investigation. In May 2025, Vaughn engaged in “Smoke on the Water,” a case involving five boosters stealing smoke detectors and electrical breakers from The Home Depot stores across Florida using a concealment method known as “tote stuffing.” This theft tactic made it difficult to determine the quantity of stolen merchandise, complicating prosecution efforts. By July 2025, surveillance revealed the boosters were stealing from four stores a day, four days a week, resulting in an average weekly loss of $144,000. Rather than stopping at arrests, Vaughn pursued the next level of the criminal enterprise. In late July, a surveillance operation was conducted in which investigators followed the fence back to their storage facility in Tampa; launching a new elevation of the case, then dubbed “Ring of Fire.” Subsequent surveillances led to a Tier 2 fence in Kissimmee, FL, and a Tier 3 fence in Houston, TX. The Tier 3 fence was selling stolen merchandise via its company website and three additional e-commerce platforms. Weekly shipments of 2–4 pallets confirmed the scale of the operation. In September 2025, a coordinated plan was executed to serve arrest and search warrants across Tampa, Lake Wales, Kissimmee, and Houston; which resulted in 7 arrests: including all boosters and the Tier 1 and Tier 2 fences, and the recovery of $78,000 in stolen merchandise from the Tier 1 storage unit and $312,000 from the Tier 3 warehouse. Vaughn’s approach has improved investigative practices, including early involvement of prosecutors and streamlined merchandise recovery. In addition to highlighting this great investigation, Special Agent Vaughn deserves a huge shout out. His dedication to understanding the retail environment and his willingness to learn have made him an exceptional ORC investigator. As Vaughn himself says, “Nothing worth doing is ever easy.”
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: LP Rising star OF THE YEAR
lp rising star of the year - FINALIST #1:
Christian Latson, Loss Prevention Operations Manager - Homegoods
Here is what people are saying about Christian:
- Here are all the reasons that I believe that Christian should win in the LP Rising Star Category: Collaboration Through Innovation • Partnered closely with ISS leadership and teams to translate and deliver real world retail and LP requirements into an innovative new device design as part of a broader enterprise initiative. • Demonstrated courage by challenging existing assumptions around merchandise protection solutions and advocating for a more effective, brand-specific solution while maintaining operational excellence and shrink reduction impact. • Served as the connective leader between business needs, operational constraints, and technical feasibility, ensuring innovation was practical and grounded in real world execution. Leadership & Execution • Led cross functional working sessions that encouraged open dialogue, constructive challenge, and shared ownership of outcomes across LP, operations, and partners. • Played a central leadership role in coordinating end to end integration and execution over an extended timeline, consistently guiding teams toward sustainable long term outcomes rather than short term fixes. • Ensured innovation translated beyond design into adoption, usability, and scalable execution within store environments. Influence, Partnership & Industry Engagement • Demonstrated leadership through influence rather than authority, shaping outcomes by fostering trust based collaboration and constructively challenging convention. • Actively engages with the broader loss prevention community through industry forums and cross company initiatives, bringing external insight back to strengthen internal thinking and decision making. • Recognized by peers and partners as a thoughtful, credible, and collaborative voice within the LP community. Growth & Rising Star Qualities • Shows a clear trajectory as an emerging leader within retail LP, consistently operating beyond defined role scope. • Actively develops others, shares insight, and elevates the work of the broader team. • Represents the future of the LP profession through curiosity, adaptability, values based leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
LP RISING STAR of the year - FINALIST #2:
Jennifer Zervas, Sr. Manager of Loss Prevention - At Home Stores
Here is what people are saying about Jennifer:
- Jen manages the analytics, investigations and physical security teams for our org. Most importantly, she is the liaison to the IT group for integrations and the go to person for the socialization of our technology throughout the org. Over the last several years she has collaborated with the field and IT teams to utilize our case mgt. system as an enterprise business tool. She suggests anything that need to be automated and reported on be set in our program. Additionally, she has trained our accounting partners in using our exception reporting system to help in some of their processes related to physical inventory. Some examples of this cross functional work include Pre-truck receiving checklist and automations, the District Mgr. Walk, Mgr on Duty checklists, Store Closure reporting, automated deposit tracking, employee and customer accidents, pin-pad audit and too many more to mention. All are tablet based, automated and create significant labor saving across the org. Considering how well she handles the analytics, investigations and physical security teams while supporting multiple others in the org.: seems to me to be the definition of the modern loss prevention practitioner and she should be recognized for these accomplishments.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: investigator OF THE YEAR
investigator of the year - FINALIST #1:
chelsea tower, orc manager ulta beauty
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding investigator:
- Ulta Beauty ORC Manager Chelsea Tower has assisted the ORC/LE industry on so many levels that is hard to list all the details of her impact in a short summation. She has consistently demonstrated not only outstanding results with her ability to resolve ORC issues for Ulta Beauty, but she has also led through her direct report to help him have a huge impact in Northern CA with a newly formed role that is just now hitting the one year mark. She consistently is at the top of the leaderboard for Ulta Beauty KPIs for investigation results, but what is even more impressive is the large footprint Chelsea has shown outside of the UB organization that can be seen on many levels. Prosecutors in Oregon, CA and Washington State routinely reach out to her supervisor to let him how fantastic Chelsea is to work with and how she has become the shining example of what they need to see from retailer's who are looking for assistance. Chelsea's passion and dedication is evident with her tireless effort to try to find solutions to benefit all retailers in the PNW. She is very involved with two ORCA programs and a state AG ORC Task Force and routinely is asked to give opinions and provide assistance to help the ORC issues all retailers are facing. She has developed very strong relations with peer ORC teams and LE in her areas of support and truly understands the value of combining forces to resolve issues facing the retail community. From leading fencing cases, to pitching in to helping other retailers on surveillances, from coordinating search warrants to mentoring AP teams from other retailers, Chelsea has had such a huge impact in the PNW this past year. She also has been a great partner with solution providers and is not shy to give feedback to help shape their products or to look for new tech or resources that will help in the future. For all these reasons and so many more, Chelsea's impact has been felt in so many ORC related areas and is deserving or the Investigator of the Year Award.
investigator of the year - FINALIST #2:
michael collins, corporate investigator - the home depot
Here is what people are saying about this stand-out investigator:
- Michael Collins is the embodiment of excellence in loss prevention and corporate investigation. Since joining The Home Depot, Mike has played a pivotal role in combating organized retail crime, directly contributing to the arrest of numerous perpetrators and the recovery of vast amounts of stolen merchandise. His investigative skills are unmatched as he consistently produces the most detailed and concise reports, providing actionable intelligence that drives results and supports law enforcement partnerships. Mike’s impact goes beyond his technical expertise. As a former Colton Police Department officer, he brought a wealth of experience and a passion for justice to his new role, seamlessly transitioning from public service to corporate security. Despite retiring from law enforcement earlier than planned, Mike’s commitment never wavered. He jumped into his new position with both feet, quickly becoming the go-to investigator for complex cases and always seeking out the next challenge. Most recently, before my assignment overseas, Mike helped me execute a federal search warrant on a warehouse where an individual had been e-fencing goods for over a decade, affecting several retailers across the Houston, TX area. With Mike’s support, we were able to seize nearly $300,000 in stolen goods and return stolen personal items to appreciative victims. What truly sets Mike apart is his character. He is the first to volunteer, always offering a helping hand to colleagues and partners outside his organization. His dedication to teamwork and collaboration are exceptional. Mike is also a devoted family man whose values shine through in every aspect of his work, earning the respect and admiration of peers across the industry. Mike Collins exemplifies what the LP Hall stands for: professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting people and assets. His outstanding contributions, relentless pursuit of excellence, and genuine care for others make him the ideal candidate for Investigator of the Year. He is not only deserving of this recognition, he inspires others to follow his example.
investigator of the year - FINALIST #3:
Dominic Mayoral, ORC Investigator - TJX Companies
Here is what people are saying about this rock-star investigator:
- I would like to nominate Dominic Mayoral for recognition as an outstanding ORC Investigator. Dominic played a critical role in helping establish and grow a new Organized Retail Crime market in Utah, demonstrating exceptional leadership, initiative, and partnership from the very beginning. In a short period of time, Dominic quickly emerged as a rising star within the ORC community through his strong investigative skillset, professionalism, and commitment to collaboration. Dominic built and strengthened key partnerships with the Utah Attorney General’s Office, helping create meaningful alignment between retailers and law enforcement to drive impactful ORC investigations and prosecutions. In addition to his investigative contributions, Dominic consistently invested in the growth of the ORC community by helping upskill peer retailers, sharing investigative strategies, intelligence practices, and operational knowledge to strengthen overall effectiveness across the market. His ability to build relationships, influence outcomes, and elevate those around him has had a direct impact on the success and reputation of the Utah ORC efforts. Dominic’s dedication, leadership, and passion for combating organized retail crime make him highly deserving of this nomination.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: solution provider - partner
solution provider - partner of the year - FINALIST #1:
Appriss retail
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding industry partner:
- Loss prevention at a major global quick-service retailer with more than 11,000 North American locations is not a small problem. With omnichannel operations spanning café, drive-through, mobile ordering, and delivery — each with its own distinct fraud risk profile — the challenge is not finding fraud. It's finding fraud precisely, before it scales. That's what Appriss Retail made possible. Before deploying the company’s Secure platform, our team relied on aggregated metrics like who had the most refunds, the most voids, and the most line cancellations. The result was overwhelming noise with dozens of flagged cases that, on investigation, turned out to be nothing. One investigator spent an entire day reviewing 50 work items without surfacing a single fraud case. We were chasing ghosts, not catching bad actors. Appriss Retail reframed how we think about detection entirely. Rather than flagging high volumes of a given behavior, Secure enables us to write rules that identify the signature of fraud — the behavioral pattern that looks different even when it's small. A high refund rate is not necessarily a problem. Four refunds of the same item on a single transaction? That is. A store with high line voids may be operating normally. But when those voids represent a specific percentage of total cash transactions, the pattern becomes actionable. Appriss Retail gave us a scalpel where we previously had only a bat. We also integrated labor scheduling data into Secure to detect off-shift benefit abuse, like identifying employees using their partner discounts on days they weren't scheduled to work. That work item went from generating false positives to flagging genuine violations with near-perfect accuracy. The results speak to the innovation. Our team went from closing one to one-and-a-quarter investigations per investigator per week to consistently running at three to four, with top performers exceeding five. We closed more investigations last year than in any year in company history. Our detection rules maintain a 72% effectiveness rate, measured continuously and refined over time. Some regions have seen as much as a 51% reduction in high-risk POS activity year over year. Appriss Retail's innovation is what turns a small, resource-constrained team into an enterprise-wide fraud detection operation, which is exactly what an Innovator of the Year should do.
solution provider - partner of the year - FINALIST #2:
controltek
Here is what people are saying about this excellent industry partner:
- Controltek completed EAS system replacements and upgrades to our large retail stores in Omaha, Kansas City, and Dallas. They are also in the design phase with us for our next store opening in Austin, Texas in early 2027. Their entire team, from sales, design tech, installation, and maintenance have been a breath of fresh air to work with compared to our prior vendor who lost their identity and capacity to serve appearing more focused on multiple buy-outs and acquisitions. This seems to have unfortunately become far too common these days with companies that overgrow, over promise, over-charge, and under deliver. Controltek has saved retailers like us from this pain. I have been in the industry close to 30 years and have seen it all - Controltek has become my trusted partner, and I don't lose sleep worrying about their projects. They are quick to respond from all levels, and they get it done right - the first time. With our unique retail security model, I have tasked them with complicated solutions, and they hit the mark every time. In my opinion, they are the epitome of a great vendor partner and deserving of this recognition!
solution provider - partner of the year - FINALIST #3:
thinkLP - michelle michael
Here is what people are saying about this iconic industry partner:
- It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate Michelle Michael, LPC, as the Solution Provider - Partner of the Year. As a top-performing partner in this industry, Michelle’s entire career is a remarkable testament to what it means to dedicate your life to the Loss Prevention industry - not only as a practitioner, but as a trusted leader, educator, mentor, advocate, and connector of people across the retail and LP community. Michelle’s journey began on the front lines of retail loss prevention, where she spent more than a decade with industry leaders JCPenney and Kmart. During those formative years, she developed a deep operational understanding of retail investigations, shortage reduction, store safety, and the day-to-day realities faced by LP professionals. Those experiences shaped the foundation of a career built on credibility, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to supporting the people who protect retail organizations every day. For more than two decades since, Michelle has played an influential role in advancing the Loss Prevention industry through technology, innovation, and relationship-building. Serving in leadership positions including Director of Sales & Marketing at LP Software, Director of Business Development at ThinkLP, Senior Director of Business Development & Sales at ALTO USA, and strategic account leadership roles throughout the industry, Michelle has helped some of the world’s leading retailers modernize their LP operations and embrace data-driven strategies to combat theft, fraud, organized retail crime, workplace violence, and employee safety challenges.
Michelle has been especially impactful in helping elevate conversations around employee safety and retail violence prevention, advocating for stronger partnerships between retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and solution providers. What sets Michelle apart is her unique ability to bridge the gap between LP practitioners and technology solutions. Because she has personally walked in the shoes of store-level and field LP professionals, she understands the operational realities behind every challenge. Retailers trust Michelle not simply because of the companies or solutions she represents, but because of the authenticity, integrity, and industry knowledge she brings to every conversation. Michelle has also been a tireless advocate for collaboration within the LP community. Throughout her career, she has built meaningful partnerships between retailers, solution providers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and industry organizations - helping foster communication and cooperation in the fight against retail crime. She has consistently championed initiatives focused on employee safety, organized retail crime awareness, and the professional development of others within the industry.
As a holder of the Loss Prevention Certification (LPC), Michelle has demonstrated her commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and continued education within the field. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is widely respected for her willingness to mentor others, support industry peers, and elevate those around her. Her influence has extended across multiple generations of LP professionals, many of whom view Michelle not only as a respected industry leader, but as someone who genuinely cares about the success and development of others. Michelle’s career reflects a rare combination of operational expertise, industry leadership, mentorship, innovation, and unwavering advocacy for the Loss Prevention profession. Michelle Michael’s dedication, influence, leadership, and lasting contributions have left a meaningful and enduring mark on the Loss Prevention community, making her exceptionally deserving of this recognition as an outstanding partner to this industry.
Michelle has been especially impactful in helping elevate conversations around employee safety and retail violence prevention, advocating for stronger partnerships between retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and solution providers. What sets Michelle apart is her unique ability to bridge the gap between LP practitioners and technology solutions. Because she has personally walked in the shoes of store-level and field LP professionals, she understands the operational realities behind every challenge. Retailers trust Michelle not simply because of the companies or solutions she represents, but because of the authenticity, integrity, and industry knowledge she brings to every conversation. Michelle has also been a tireless advocate for collaboration within the LP community. Throughout her career, she has built meaningful partnerships between retailers, solution providers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and industry organizations - helping foster communication and cooperation in the fight against retail crime. She has consistently championed initiatives focused on employee safety, organized retail crime awareness, and the professional development of others within the industry.
As a holder of the Loss Prevention Certification (LPC), Michelle has demonstrated her commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and continued education within the field. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is widely respected for her willingness to mentor others, support industry peers, and elevate those around her. Her influence has extended across multiple generations of LP professionals, many of whom view Michelle not only as a respected industry leader, but as someone who genuinely cares about the success and development of others. Michelle’s career reflects a rare combination of operational expertise, industry leadership, mentorship, innovation, and unwavering advocacy for the Loss Prevention profession. Michelle Michael’s dedication, influence, leadership, and lasting contributions have left a meaningful and enduring mark on the Loss Prevention community, making her exceptionally deserving of this recognition as an outstanding partner to this industry.
- What makes Michelle truly exceptional is her ability to unite people across the industry. She has built trusted relationships with retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and solution providers while consistently advocating for stronger collaboration and communication in the fight against retail crime. Her leadership has helped organizations rethink how proactive offender management and cross-functional partnerships can improve safety outcomes for frontline retail employees. Michelle is also widely respected for her integrity, authenticity, and willingness to support others. She has mentored countless professionals throughout her career and has become a trusted advisor to many within the Loss Prevention community. Whether speaking with store-level investigators or executive leadership teams, Michelle brings the same professionalism, passion, and commitment to helping others succeed.
solution provider - partner of the year - FINALIST #4:
West Coast Recruiting - Tracy Nini
Here is what people are saying about this pioneering industry partner:
- I'm thrilled to nominate Tracy Nini, the dynamic President, Founder, and CEO of West Coast Recruiting, Inc. (WCR), as this year's Solution Provider - Partner Award. Tracy has been recognized in the past but with 2025 being yet another year of reaching out to support even more sectors of the industry, volunteering with organizations like ISCPO, it is only appropriate to put her name forward again this year.
Tracy's been a powerhouse in retail loss prevention and security for over 36 years, and her passion has truly transformed the industry. She's not just a recruiter. She's a mentor, connector, and innovator who's helped countless pros build safer, stronger retail worlds. Back in 1989, Tracy launched WCR from scratch, turning it into the go-to firm for placing top talent in security, asset protection, risk management, cybersecurity, and more. She's worked with big names like Bloomingdales, Microsoft, Sephora, GameStop, and The Home Depot, building a network of over 17,000 professionals and landing senior roles nationwide and beyond. In 2022, she acquired LPJobs.com, the top job board for loss prevention gigs, making career paths more accessible for everyone from mid-level folks to execs. What really sets Tracy apart is her voice in the field. As co-host of "The Securing Success Talk Show" podcast with John Matas, she dives into real-world topics like emerging threats and best practices, chatting with experts and sparking conversations that keep the industry ahead of the curve. Her episodes are packed with practical insights, and they've become a must-listen for industry pros looking to level up. Tracy's also deeply involved. She's on the Board of Directors (and Vice Chair) at the International Supply Chain Protection Organization (ISCPO), championing membership, recruitment, and veteran support. Plus, she's certified in ASIS Executive Protection, a member of Women In Security, and a board member at Muralism, a nonprofit using art to promote inclusion. Folks rave about her. LinkedIn's full of stories from people whose lives changed thanks to her placements, calling her expertise "outstanding" and her firm "award-winning." In a time of rising retail crime and cyber risks, Tracy's built a resilient workforce with heart and hustle. She's earned this recognition for her year over year commitment to this industry and her lifelong impact.
Tracy's been a powerhouse in retail loss prevention and security for over 36 years, and her passion has truly transformed the industry. She's not just a recruiter. She's a mentor, connector, and innovator who's helped countless pros build safer, stronger retail worlds. Back in 1989, Tracy launched WCR from scratch, turning it into the go-to firm for placing top talent in security, asset protection, risk management, cybersecurity, and more. She's worked with big names like Bloomingdales, Microsoft, Sephora, GameStop, and The Home Depot, building a network of over 17,000 professionals and landing senior roles nationwide and beyond. In 2022, she acquired LPJobs.com, the top job board for loss prevention gigs, making career paths more accessible for everyone from mid-level folks to execs. What really sets Tracy apart is her voice in the field. As co-host of "The Securing Success Talk Show" podcast with John Matas, she dives into real-world topics like emerging threats and best practices, chatting with experts and sparking conversations that keep the industry ahead of the curve. Her episodes are packed with practical insights, and they've become a must-listen for industry pros looking to level up. Tracy's also deeply involved. She's on the Board of Directors (and Vice Chair) at the International Supply Chain Protection Organization (ISCPO), championing membership, recruitment, and veteran support. Plus, she's certified in ASIS Executive Protection, a member of Women In Security, and a board member at Muralism, a nonprofit using art to promote inclusion. Folks rave about her. LinkedIn's full of stories from people whose lives changed thanks to her placements, calling her expertise "outstanding" and her firm "award-winning." In a time of rising retail crime and cyber risks, Tracy's built a resilient workforce with heart and hustle. She's earned this recognition for her year over year commitment to this industry and her lifelong impact.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: outstanding orca OF THE YEAR
outstanding orca of the year - FINALIST #1:
maorca - mid-atlantic organized retail crime Alliance
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding ORCA:
- I am proud to nominate MAORCA for Outstanding ORCA. Throughout 2025 and 2026, MAORCA has fundamentally redefined regional collaboration by moving beyond simple networking to build a unified, multi-disciplinary investigative engine. Strategic Innovation: The Intelligence Exchange Network: The cornerstone of MAORCA’s success is the newly developed Intelligence Exchange and Investigative Support Groups. This tiered model ensures that high-level investigations are both surgical and well-supported: - The Intelligence Exchange Group: Comprised of dedicated ORC investigators with the authority for off-site investigative actions and mobile surveillance. These members lead the charge, conducting the fieldwork necessary to dismantle complex criminal enterprises.
- The Investigative Support Group: Provides the critical intelligence and research that fuels these operations. By streamlining communication and requiring strict NDAs and supervisor verification, MAORCA has created a secure, "source of truth" ecosystem that bridges the gap between the private sector and law enforcement across the Mid-Atlantic. Explosive Growth and Vital Training: The industry has responded to this professionalized approach with unprecedented engagement. MAORCA’s membership has surged to over 1,700 active members. Beyond just numbers, the alliance is tackling the most severe humanitarian impacts of organized crime.
In 2026, MAORCA is hosting a specialized webinar focused on identifying the indicators of human trafficking among ORC subjects. By training retailers to recognize when individuals are being coerced into crime by criminal organizations, MAORCA is elevating the mission from loss prevention to true public safety.
Setting the Standard for Education: To support its 1,700 members, MAORCA has significantly scaled its professional development: - 2025: Expanded the annual conference to a full-day event with a dedicated solution provider/vendor room and setting a record for attendance for their conference. - 2026: Evolving to a 1.5-day intensive conference to allow for deeper strategic collaboration.
Why MAORCA Should Win: MAORCA is the ultimate "Force Multiplier." By uniting fierce competitors and diverse law enforcement agencies through the Intelligence Exchange, they have turned fragmented data into powerful prosecutions. They are the gold standard for what a modern, effective, and compassionate ORCA should be.
- The Investigative Support Group: Provides the critical intelligence and research that fuels these operations. By streamlining communication and requiring strict NDAs and supervisor verification, MAORCA has created a secure, "source of truth" ecosystem that bridges the gap between the private sector and law enforcement across the Mid-Atlantic. Explosive Growth and Vital Training: The industry has responded to this professionalized approach with unprecedented engagement. MAORCA’s membership has surged to over 1,700 active members. Beyond just numbers, the alliance is tackling the most severe humanitarian impacts of organized crime.
In 2026, MAORCA is hosting a specialized webinar focused on identifying the indicators of human trafficking among ORC subjects. By training retailers to recognize when individuals are being coerced into crime by criminal organizations, MAORCA is elevating the mission from loss prevention to true public safety.
Setting the Standard for Education: To support its 1,700 members, MAORCA has significantly scaled its professional development: - 2025: Expanded the annual conference to a full-day event with a dedicated solution provider/vendor room and setting a record for attendance for their conference. - 2026: Evolving to a 1.5-day intensive conference to allow for deeper strategic collaboration.
Why MAORCA Should Win: MAORCA is the ultimate "Force Multiplier." By uniting fierce competitors and diverse law enforcement agencies through the Intelligence Exchange, they have turned fragmented data into powerful prosecutions. They are the gold standard for what a modern, effective, and compassionate ORCA should be.
outstanding orca of the year - FINALIST #2:
nvorca - nevada organized retail crime association
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding ORCA:
- The Nevada Organized Retail Crime Association (NVORCA) continues to lead the way in the fight against Organized Retail Crime. This group, which has been established for several years, continues to evolve and create increased momentum toward the goal of attacking Organized Retail Crime Issues on every level. From the tireless work to effect change at the legislative level, to taking action together working complex blitz and surveillance operations, to having leadership influence beyond the borders of Nevada, the collective group that makes up NVORCA is elite in character, action and results. And they prove it over and over again with high energy, urgency and strong camaraderie. If you plan to commit retail crimes in the state of Nevada, you better know that NVORCA will be after you with a laser focus and unwavering resolve. Beyond the state borders, NVORCA also has a voice at the national level, acting as a guiding voice for other ORCA groups and a proud member of the Western States Organized Retail Crime Alliance. NVORCA leaders continue to find ways to effect positive change for their partners that often stretch responsibility across several states. NVORCA gatherings and initiatives are always well organized, exciting and always have a positive influence on the communities within the state of Nevada. If you are not a member, you need to become a member of the Nevada Organized Retail Crime Association and work with these great partners. It is an honor to nominate the Nevada Organized Retail Crime Association for this award.
outstanding orca of the year - FINALIST #3:
utorca - utah organized retail crime association
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding ORCA:
- I’ve been involved with retail loss prevention and law enforcement partnerships for years, and I can confidently say that UTORCA has become one of the most effective organizations tackling Organized Retail Crime (ORC) in the country. Formed in March 2012, this coalition has grown from a small group of dedicated retailers and law enforcement professionals along the Wasatch Front into a highly efficient, intelligence-driven crime-fighting machine. utorca.org What sets UTORCA apart is its practical, results-oriented approach. Members gain access to real-time alerts, shared surveillance footage, suspect photos, and critical incident data through their user-friendly platform. This rapid information-sharing has dramatically improved our ability to identify repeat offenders, track organized rings operating across multiple stores and jurisdictions, and build stronger cases. The quarterly meetings and training seminars provide invaluable networking and keep everyone ahead of evolving tactics like ticket switching, booster crews, and fencing operations. utorca.org Over the past decade-plus, UTORCA has evolved into a model for other regions. Their collaborative model—free membership for qualifying law enforcement and retail professionals—fosters genuine partnerships that directly protect Utah businesses and communities. The annual conferences (including the recent 10th anniversary event) are always top-tier, featuring relevant speakers, trend analysis, and actionable strategies.
- UTORCA has transformed organized retail crime collaboration in Utah by uniting retailers, law enforcement, and prosecutors through intelligence sharing, training, BOLO coordination, and blitz operations. Through strategic partnerships and proactive case development, UTORCA has strengthened ORC investigations, increased arrests and recoveries, and elevated statewide collaboration to combat repeat offenders.
- UTORCA has grown 75% in a year. It has increased the amount of training provided to law enforcement and peer retailers. It has increased the number of state wide retail blitzes by 3 fold. Consistency in meeting days and times. Average headcount at yearly conference is over 250 people. They relationship building between law enforcement and retail with lunches and bolo meetings. The implementation of the Signal AP as allowed for real time intelligence and real time arrests. With LEOs monitoring the AP like a dispatcher and getting live information on thefts occurring in their city. This give balance to the retailers so that the smaller ones get the same response as the multi billion dollar ones do. They constantly looking to see what they can do to improve the processes between LEOs and retailers in order to arrest and prosecute the bad guys and keep them locked up. The feeling at one of their bolo meetings give you a sense that everyone matters and no theft is to small.
- UTORCA has been a game changer in creating a collaborative space for retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and solution providers. Over the past three consecutive years, UTORCA has delivered exceptional conferences and training opportunities, while continually evolving to meet the needs of its members and to stay relevant. Most notably, UTORCA has enabled real-time communication channel between law enforcement and retailers, directly contributing to several high‑impact arrests of organized and traveling booster crews. In addition, UTORCA remains committed to community outreach and provides critical upskilling for law enforcement and prosecutors, equipping them with current insights into emerging trends and the evolving retail theft landscape. A founding member of WSORCA, UTORCA was vital in the successful planning and execution of the first in person Western States conference in 2024, held in Draper Utah.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: LP LEADER OF THE YEAR
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #1:
David shugan, VP of ASSET PROTECTION - Verizon by Victra
Here is what people are saying about David:
- Dave Shugan, CFI, is the Vice President of Asset Protection at Victra, a leading Verizon Authorized Retailer, where he plays a critical role in safeguarding operations, reducing risk, and supporting store performance. I had the privilege of reporting to Dave for over five years in the early 2000s. This not only helped set my career in motion, but since that time, we have maintained a strong professional relationship, and Dave has continued to invest in the development of me and others, and after I became the AP/LP leader in another retail organization, he has spoken to my teams and mentored its members on numerous occasions. Dave possesses more than 30 years of experience in loss prevention and fraud mitigation. His career includes senior leadership roles with major retail brands such as Carter’s and Cracker Barrel, where he built a reputation for combining investigative rigor with practical, business-focused strategies. His Certified Forensic Interviewer (CFI) designation reflects expertise in investigative interviewing, one of the core disciplines of effective asset protection. However, these credentials alone are not why I am nominating Dave for Leader of the Year. What truly sets him apart is his continued growth as a leader. After long tenures in traditional retail roles, Dave made the move to the solution provider side of the industry. While some view the transition lightly or joke about the dark side, the experience broadened his perspective in a meaningful way. It challenged him to think differently about problems, technology, and how solutions are applied to real world environments. When Dave recently returned to a corporate leadership role, he did so with renewed clarity and purpose. He shared with me that he missed the pace of day-to-day operations, and the continual relationships with his team, but more importantly, he was committed to leading differently. He has delivered on that commitment. At Victra, Dave has built a modern, forward-thinking asset protection function aligned to a fast-paced retail environment. He balances data-driven insights with real-world observation, ensuring leadership remains present in stores and connected to frontline teams. He has embraced technology without losing sight of the human elements of relationships, mentorship, and culture, which drive long-term success. Dave’s leadership extends beyond his organization through his involvement in industry groups and ongoing contributions to the profession. He is a strategic thinker, a committed mentor, and a leader who continues to evolve, making him highly deserving of this recognition.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #2:
DENNY DEMARCY, senior director of loss prevention - dick's sporting goods
Here is what people are saying about Denny:
- Denny is an exceptional Loss Prevention leader whose influence extends across every facet of the organization. Throughout 2025–2026, he has overseen all Loss Prevention functions at DICK’S Sporting Goods, transforming the department into a strategic, people centered, and future focused organization that consistently delivers outstanding results while elevating the culture of the company. Denny has built a phenomenal team grounded in trust, innovation, and accountability. Under his leadership, Loss Prevention has become a trusted, strategic partner across the enterprise—working in true synergy with HR, Legal, Operations, Merchandising, Customer Service, and Finance. He ensures LP always has a seat at the table by demonstrating value, clarity, and partnership in every conversation. His decisions are rooted in doing what is best for customers, teammates, and the business, and he has an unmatched ability to see around corners, anticipating risks and opportunities long before they surface. His Profit Protection team stands as one of the most innovative total retail loss groups in the industry. By integrating operational risk, fraud mitigation, safety, compliance, product preservation, and brand protection, this team has delivered millions in annual savings while strengthening store execution and customer experience. Profit Protection has become a model for modern retail loss strategy and a competitive advantage for the company. Separately, Denny has championed predictive shrink analytics, transforming LP from a reactive function into a forward looking intelligence capability. His approach uses data science, trend modeling, and forecasting to identify risk before it becomes loss—reducing shrink, improving inventory accuracy, and ensuring customers have access to the products they love. Denny also leads an elevated, industry defining Internal Theft Program, built on rigorous investigative standards, structured case development, and best in class interviewing methodology. His team consistently delivers exceptional investigative outcomes, including major felony cases, multi state ORC takedowns, and high impact law enforcement partnerships. His external theft strategy emphasizes threat and brand protection, ensuring stores remain safe, trusted, and resilient. But what truly sets Denny apart is who he is as a person. He remembers everyone he meets—their families, their stories, their goals—and he genuinely cares to listen. He shows up every single day for his team, mentoring emerging leaders, advocating for their growth, and creating a culture where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. Denny is a phenomenal LP leader—but an even better human being. His innovation, integrity, synergy driven leadership, and unwavering commitment to people make him exceptionally deserving of LP Leader of the Year.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #3:
nick cranfill, senior director of loss prevention - variety wholesalers
Here is what people are saying about Nick:
- It is my distinct honor to nominate Nick Cranfill for LP Leader of the Year. Nick’s exceptional leadership was the cornerstone of our department’s success during a period of unprecedented organizational growth, specifically during the acquisition and integration of Big Lots! which grew overall store count by more than 50%. While such massive shifts often lead to team disengagement and performance dips, Nick served as a stabilizing force throughout the 18-month transition. By serving as a consistent source of transparency and calm, he mitigated the uncertainty that naturally follows organizational change. He was instrumental in the physical and cultural integration of the new stores, personally leading the onboarding of new LP team members to ensure a seamless shift to our specific directives, policies, and procedural standards. Beyond his leadership during corporate transitions, Nick has delivered measurable, bottom-line results that prove his operational excellence. Under his guidance, the company has seen a significant reduction in overall shrink YoY. This improvement is a testament to his data-driven approach and commitment to asset protection. Furthermore, Nick’s tenure as Senior Director has been defined by a relentless pursuit of integrity; he has managed to break internal theft goals every single year since being promoted to the position. Nick also functioned as the primary architect for the Loss Prevention portion of the acquisition project. His ability to build trust across diverse departments allowed him to manage complex, cross-functional action plans that stakeholders relied upon. Because he worked so diligently to resolve transition issues as they arose, the project was delivered on time. Both executive leadership and his direct reports have specifically cited Nick’s involvement as a primary reason for the project’s success. His brand of collaborative leadership, rooted in a genuine investment in the company’s future, is exactly what this award was designed to celebrate. I submit this nomination with the highest level of confidence and enthusiasm.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #4:
Sarah Meyer, Director of Asset Protection - Cub Foods
Here is what people are saying about Sarah:
- During the winter of 2025–2026, when Operation Metro Surge brought thousands of ICE agents into the Twin Cities and protests unfolded across Minneapolis/St. Paul, Cub Foods faced an unprecedented challenge. Stores were surrounded by fast‑moving events, associates were anxious, and the safety landscape changed by the hour. In this environment of uncertainty and tension, one leader stood at the center of it all — guiding with clarity, steadiness, and unwavering commitment. That leader was Sarah Meyer. As the head of Cub Asset Protection, Sarah became the anchor for the entire organization. She coordinated a months‑long response that required real‑time intelligence, rapid decision‑making, and constant communication with Operations, external security partners, and her own AP team. Under her leadership, the AP team monitored live‑streamed events overnight, tracked protest movements, and identified when situations were escalating toward Cub locations. Sarah ensured that store teams received timely, actionable information so they could close safely, evacuate when necessary, and protect associates without any delay. What sets Sarah apart is her extraordinary ability to lead with neutrality and professionalism in a politically charged environment. She guided her team to remain focused on safety, not sides — a standard she modeled every day. Her calm, measured presence prevented fear from spreading, prevented misinformation from taking root, and preserved trust across Cub’s diverse workforce. Sarah Meyer exemplifies what it means to be a Leader of the Year: decisive under pressure, compassionate in crisis, and unwaveringly committed to the people she serves. Her leadership during one of the most challenging periods in Cub’s history was nothing short of exceptional, and she is profoundly deserving of this recognition.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #5:
Millie Kresevich, Vice President, Asset Protection - EssilorLuxottica
Here is what people are saying about Millie:
- It is an absolute honor to nominate Millie Kresevich, Vice President of Asset Protection North America, at EssilorLuxottica, for the LP Leader of the Year award. Millie is the definition of a transformational leader. In a retail environment marked by escalating complexity and volatility, she has consistently led by example, empowering her team to achieve unprecedented success while making a profoundly positive impact on the culture of our organization. During the 2025 calendar year, Millie's strategic vision and unwavering support empowered the Western Asset Protection and Investigations Team to become the top-producing unit across all external metrics within our enterprise. Under her executive leadership, the team safely resolved 24 violent robberies and closed 139 major cases. Furthermore, her ability to align asset protection strategies with broader retail operations led to historic year-over-year inventory shrink improvements—driving reductions ranging from 45% to 95% across multiple national retail divisions. However, Millie’s true legacy as a leader is how she champions her people. She cultivates an environment of relentless innovation and cross-functional partnership. When our region faced highly sophisticated Organized Retail Crime (ORC), Millie empowered us to pioneer the inaugural critical incident ORC syndicate debrief in our company’s history. Because she gave us the runway to innovate, we successfully united retail managers, law enforcement, and district attorneys to dismantle high-impact criminal networks. Millie leads with profound empathy and integrity, whether navigating the successes of a record-breaking year or the adversity of high-risk security threats. She actively removes roadblocks, advocates for advanced technological integrations, and ensures her personnel have the resources to thrive both personally and professionally. She is not just driving bottom-line success for EssilorLuxottica; she is actively mentoring and developing the next generation of industry leaders. I offer my highest possible recommendation for Millie Kresevich as LP Leader of the Year.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #6:
Dan Haley, Director of Loss Prevention - Prime Communications
Here is what people are saying about Dan:
- In an industry that demands relentless vigilance, adaptability, and leadership, Dan Haley has spent more than two decades proving that exceptional loss prevention isn’t just about stopping theft — it’s about building a culture of accountability that scales. As Director of Loss Prevention for Prime Communications, Dan oversees a staggering portfolio: 2,000 locations and a workforce of more than 10,000 team members. That’s not a job. That’s a mission — and Dan has executed it with distinction, year after year.
What sets Dan apart is consistency. While many LP programs produce a standout year, Dan has built and sustained a top-performing team that delivers measurable, year-over-year improvement in results. In a retail environment as complex and geographically dispersed as Prime Communications, that kind of sustained performance doesn’t happen by accident. It is the product of smart strategy, strong systems, and — most importantly — exceptional leadership.
But Dan’s impact goes far beyond metrics. He is known throughout his organization as a mentor and guide, someone who invests daily in the development of the people around him. In a field that often struggles with retention and burnout, Dan creates LP professionals who are better at their craft because of his influence. The team he leads doesn’t just perform — they grow.
Twenty-plus years in loss prevention is rare. Twenty-plus years at the level Dan has maintained — leading one of the largest LP operations in the wireless retail sector — is extraordinary. He has seen the industry transform through technological shifts, evolving theft patterns, and operational upheaval, and he has steered his program through every era without missing a beat.
The LP Leader of the Year award exists to recognize individuals who elevate this profession through vision, results, and people. Dan Haley is precisely that person. His longevity, his results, his scale of responsibility, and his genuine commitment to mentoring the next generation of LP leaders make him not just a worthy nominee — but an obvious one. Dan Haley has spent over two decades making retail safer and stronger. It’s time the industry recognized him for it.
What sets Dan apart is consistency. While many LP programs produce a standout year, Dan has built and sustained a top-performing team that delivers measurable, year-over-year improvement in results. In a retail environment as complex and geographically dispersed as Prime Communications, that kind of sustained performance doesn’t happen by accident. It is the product of smart strategy, strong systems, and — most importantly — exceptional leadership.
But Dan’s impact goes far beyond metrics. He is known throughout his organization as a mentor and guide, someone who invests daily in the development of the people around him. In a field that often struggles with retention and burnout, Dan creates LP professionals who are better at their craft because of his influence. The team he leads doesn’t just perform — they grow.
Twenty-plus years in loss prevention is rare. Twenty-plus years at the level Dan has maintained — leading one of the largest LP operations in the wireless retail sector — is extraordinary. He has seen the industry transform through technological shifts, evolving theft patterns, and operational upheaval, and he has steered his program through every era without missing a beat.
The LP Leader of the Year award exists to recognize individuals who elevate this profession through vision, results, and people. Dan Haley is precisely that person. His longevity, his results, his scale of responsibility, and his genuine commitment to mentoring the next generation of LP leaders make him not just a worthy nominee — but an obvious one. Dan Haley has spent over two decades making retail safer and stronger. It’s time the industry recognized him for it.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: Law Enforcement partner OF THE YEAR
LE Partner of the year - FINALIST #1:
Captain Casey Slaughter, Captain of Investigations - Wichita Police Department
Here is what people are saying about Captain Casey's Crusaders of Crime:
- It is with great respect that I nominate the Wichita Police Department Property Crimes Reduction Taskforce (PCRT) for the 2026 LP Partner Award. I have worked alongside numerous agencies nationwide, but few initiatives demonstrate the level of operational effectiveness, measurable impact, and public/private collaboration as those achieved by the PCRT. Previously recognized for excellence, PCRT has continued to expand in Year 2, strengthening its position as a national benchmark for organized retail crime suppression and intelligence-led policing. Established on October 14, 2024, PCRT was created in response to rising organized retail crime, vehicle theft, and burglary trends across Wichita and Sedgwick County, where property crime reached five-year highs. Under Captain Casey Slaughter, the initiative evolved into a regional enforcement model built on intelligence-led policing, CompStat accountability, proactive offender targeting, technology integration, and interagency collaboration. PCRT expanded into a 17-agency task force across six counties, supported by formal MOUs and real-time intelligence sharing. Key partners include ORCC, automotive associations, and major retailers. The collaboration enables coordinated surveillance, repeat offender tracking, fencing disruption, and real-time ORC investigations through secure communication platforms. PCRT has achieved measurable crime reduction despite national increases in organized retail crime: 8% initial reduction in retail theft Additional 18% reduction through 2025 26% combined reduction entering Year 2 Operational results include over 1,000 self-initiated calls, 693 arrests, 469 vehicles recovered, and more than $10.3M in recovered property, along with significant narcotics and firearms seizures. Under Captain Casey Slaughter, PCRT has become a scalable, results-driven model that balances proactive enforcement with prevention and accountability. Its framework is now being studied and replicated by agencies nationwide.
LE Partner Of the year - FINALIST #2:
Ian White, Captain - Campbell, CA Police Department
Here is what people are saying about Captain White:
- Captain Ian White has done an outstanding job in Campbell, CA in taking a technology-led approach to community policing. Not only has he helped his department realize the value of a real time crime center, he and his team have essentially built their community based program from the ground up. From sourcing LPR and CCTV solutions to gathering funding for their project, from starting a drone first responder program to connecting the real time crime center to 911 dispatch, to actually installing needed tech in their city, Captain White has paved the way for for other agencies to really raise the bar on leveraging resources that is available to LE. Captain White also understands the business impact to his community and he has tirelessly worked with retailers to not only help support his department's response to crimes against businesses, but to also look at innovative solutions that retailers can use to share real time intelligence with his RTCC. All with the goal of making Campbell, CA a safer place for residents and businesses to thrive. Captain White has also been very active in the AP Industry spending countless hours helping to educate retailers and solution providers on ways that they can collaborate with LE. He has traveled across the country to share his knowledge and perspective to vast audiences and has been more than willing to not only teach others, but also to learn how he can continue to evolve his program. Captain White has been an outstanding partner not only to Ulta Beauty, but to all retailers in the South Bay/Northern CA market. The steps he has been taking in his city reverberate outward and have helped so many others in their fight against ORC and violent crime.
LE PArtner of the year - FINALIST #3:
James Huber, Detective - Las Vegas Metro Police Department - ORC Unit
Here is what people are saying about Detective Huber:
- Detective James Huber is one of the leaders of the LVMPD ORC Unit that has completely transformed the city of Las Vegas and the urgency with which the local law enforcement and retail community attacks external theft. With a background in retail asset protection prior to joining law enforcement, James maintains a strong passion for protecting businesses and the employees that work hard within the retail environment. James consistently goes above and beyond on every level to make the city he protects safe and prosperous, remaining humble while displaying an unmatched drive to solve problems and protect the community. James is a bridge builder who creates strong relationship within the community and shapes partnerships that effect real change within the retail environment. He is a natural leader, leads with humility and calm confidence, but deep down is unrelenting presence who tirelessly and aggressively goes after those that commit crimes within the city of Las Vegas. James is intelligent and creative in how he attacks cases, an investigator who operates with a three-dimensional mindset to outthink and out maneuver his criminal opponents. He works complex cases and always finds a way to close cases effectively for his team, his retail partners and his community. James is an active Board Member of the Nevada Organized Retail Crime Alliance, one of the leading groups in the country attacking ORC issues head on and effecting real change within the ORC movement. He is consistently recognized by his partners for his work ethic, ability to build strong relationships, and elite level investigative abilities. James, his LVMPD squad, and his team at NVORCA have given real hope to retail victims in Las Vegas that theft crimes are not acceptable and will be attacked and resolved relentlessly. In the city of Las Vegas, perhaps one of the most challenging urban retail theft landscapes in the world, Detective Huber and the LVMPD ORC Unit continue to be heroes to many. It is my honor to recognize Detective James Huber for this law enforcement leadership recognition.
LE PARTNER of the year - FINALIST #4:
Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office (MA)
Here is what people are saying about this office of excellence:
- The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office (Massachusetts) is recognized for its leadership in combating, suppressing, and dismantling transnational Organized Retail Theft (ORT) groups engaged in broader criminal activity across the United States and internationally. Under the leadership of Timothy J. Cruz, the office established a dedicated ORT Taskforce focused on long-term investigations, intelligence sharing, victim support, and coordinated prosecution strategies. The taskforce was built through a proactive approach that included hiring a dedicated ORT investigator, assigning an Assistant District Attorney, incorporating victim advocate support, and developing strong partnerships with local, state, federal, and regional law enforcement agencies to provide comprehensive ORT case support. District Attorney Cruz has emphasized holding high-level criminal offenders accountable while creating a collaborative enforcement model that other jurisdictions can replicate. As the current President of the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), District Attorney Cruz has expanded awareness of organized retail theft as a significant public safety and economic crime issue beyond Massachusetts and New England. The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office works closely with retail victims, intelligence-sharing networks, prosecutors in multiple jurisdictions, and law enforcement agencies nationwide to identify and track organized theft crews, coordinate investigations, and pursue extradition efforts to return offenders to New England for prosecution. In four separate adjudicated cases, extradition efforts were successfully coordinated across the United States to return criminal leadership figures responsible for overseeing ORT crews connected to more than 40 suspects operating across 31 states. These investigations linked the groups to 198 reported incidents with reported losses exceeding $454,700. In addition to prosecution efforts, the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office hosts ORT information-sharing meetings and collaborates with professional organizations, including Organized Retail Crime Alliances, Retail Associations, and Criminal Intelligence Associations, to strengthen partnerships, improve intelligence coordination, and enhance nationwide efforts to combat organized retail crime.
LE PARTNER of the year - FINALIST #5:
California Highway Patrol Golden Gate Division Organized Retail Crime Task Force
Here is what people are saying about this 'force' to be reckoned with:
- It is my distinct honor to nominate the California Highway Patrol Golden Gate Division Organized Retail Crime Task Force, specifically Sgt. Neri and Investigators Anthony Wheeler, Nathan Hagler, and Eduardo Garcia, for Law Enforcement Partner of the Year. As the Regional Manager of Investigations for EssilorLuxottica overseeing the Western United States, I can say without hesitation that this specific task force represents the absolute gold standard for public and private partnerships. During the 2025 calendar year, this team went far beyond the traditional scope of their department. They did not just respond to incidents; they actively embedded themselves as true business partners to the retail community. When our region faced highly sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional retail crime syndicates, Sgt. Neri and his team of investigators were instrumental in turning the tide. Their dedication was on full display when they participated in our enterprise critical incident ORC syndicate debrief. This CHP Task Force dedicated their time and expertise to sit at the table with retail managers and district attorneys, helping us build robust, collaborative prosecution models. Their relentless pursuit of justice directly contributed to the neutralization of high-impact criminal networks operating across Northern California, resulting in multiple repeat offenders receiving multi-year sentences. Investigators Wheeler, Hagler, and Garcia consistently demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and a willingness to dig deep into complex fraud and theft cases. They lead by example, maintaining composure and driving results even during times of escalating retail violence. This task force proves that when law enforcement and retail loss prevention operate as a unified front, the impact on community safety is profound. I offer my highest possible recommendation for this exceptional team.
LE PARTNER of the year - FINALIST #6:
Montgomery County Detectives Bureau Major Crimes Unit / ORC Task Force
Here is what people are saying - this 'force' is with you!:
- The Montgomery County Detectives Bureau Major Crimes Unit / ORC Task Force has demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and multi‑jurisdictional leadership in combating organized retail crime. Their partnership has directly enabled major felony prosecutions, high‑value recoveries, and coordinated enforcement efforts across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Illinois, and New York. Their work has significantly strengthened retailer safety and set a benchmark for law enforcement collaboration. The Task Force played a pivotal role in the investigation and prosecution of Dennis Foley, whose theft activity spanned three states. Through strategic use of License Plate Recognition technology, geolocation warrants, and intelligence sharing, they identified additional losses, supported felony charges in multiple jurisdictions, and facilitated approximately $20,000 in restitution. Their proactive approach transformed a complex offender into a fully resolved case with meaningful financial recovery. Their work dismantling the “Bat Crew”—Mitchell, Kolar, Dytlow, and Bucka—further demonstrates their operational excellence. With a total loss impact of $116,589.38, the Task Force secured successful prosecutions for Mitchel and Kolar in Pennsylvania, coordinated the arrests of Dytlow and Bucka in Illinois, and recovered $45,000 during a New Jersey traffic stop initiated from a BOLO tied to their investigation. Their collaboration with NYPD to raid a pawn shop used by the crew was instrumental in enabling Pennsylvania charges and shutting down a key fencing
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.
Meet your 2026 finalists FOR: LP TEAM OF THE YEAR
LP TEAM of the year - FINALIST #1:
7-eleven asset protection team
Here is what people are saying about this outstanding LP Team:
- I would like to nominate the Asset Protection team at 7-Eleven for LP team of the year. For more than a decade, this team has changed how asset protection is done in the convenience industry by establishing credibility in the organization, widening the scope to include total retail loss, and delivering incredible results. In the last year, the results in three major categories of asset protection are extraordinary. First, by focusing on a multi-pronged approach addressing serious incidents in the stores that include technology, store walks, and de-escalation training, the company has realized double-digit reductions, year over year as a percentage. Since 2022, serious incidents are down by 78%. Second, the business came to the AP team to help solve an issue with fuel losses. The investigations team, led by Lauren Freede, quickly stood up a team of investigators to address what was happening in the field. Within days, the team was identifying sudden fuel losses by location and providing information to law enforcement to make arrests. Since then, the team has worked with the fuels department internally as well as our fuel vendors to create a process that identifies real-time loss, allowing the investigators to dial into a store and watch the theft in action. The investigator then contacts local law enforcement to make an arrest during the commission of the crime. This process requires a great deal of pre-work with our law enforcement partners, so they understand what they are rolling up on during an incident and gives them the details of what to look for, including access points and devices built to defeat the pumps. This program has resulted in hundreds of arrests and saved the company tens of millions of dollars over the last couple of years. Finally, as part of a complete AP program, we have a safety team led by Kevin Westendorf. This team focuses on driving a complete behavioral safety program that includes driving OSHA recordable rate. Through excellent programs that include awareness posters and computer-based training, as well as a store Safety Captain program, the company has improved its OSHA recordable rate by almost 40% over the past 8 years! All of this is accomplished by working seamlessly across multiple departments to create buy-in and to get leadership to invest in our solutions. This is also achieved by utilizing some very key vendors to help execute our programs.
LP team of the year - FINALIST #2:
GRainger's global security & Loss prevention team
Here is what people are saying about this exceptional LP Team:
- Grainger is a leading broad line distributor of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions across North America. Its Branch Network — consisting of retail locations across North America — plays a critical role in supporting customers through secure, reliable, and accessible brick-and-mortar operations. Grainger’s Global Security & Loss Prevention team delivered transformative results in 2025 across this Branch Network through a proactive, intelligence-led security strategy. Most notably, burglary activity declined 59% year over year, driven by crime analytics, risk-based standards, and a consistent focus on prevention. This reduction was further enabled through strong partnerships with Corporate Real Estate and Operations teams, which helped implement enhanced physical security standards and harden facilities across the network. Enhanced Global Security Operations Center real-time monitoring and proactive deterrence disrupted more than 100 after-hours incidents before potential losses occurred, shifting the organization from reactive response to early intervention. These efforts generated meaningful financial impact, including reducing reactive emergency security guard spend by 88% in one year alone. In-showroom controls also delivered measurable gains, with shoplifting incidents down 27% overall and 43% in the highest-risk first quarter. At the same time, a network-wide training initiative strengthened shoplifting policy adherence, with full adherence reported year to date, demonstrating a clear commitment to team member and customer safety in addition to loss prevention. By combining analytics, cross-functional partnerships, standardized controls, and proactive monitoring, the team established a scalable, sustainable model for enterprise risk reduction – advancing both operational resilience and a culture of safety. The proactive deterrence of Jared Tedeschi and team disrupted more than 100 after-hours incidents before potential losses occurred AND shoplifting incidents down 27% overall and 43% in the highest-risk first quarter.
LP TEAM of the year - FINALIST #3:
sally beauty loss prevention & safety team
Here is what people are saying about this fantastic LP Team:
- Over the past two years, the Sally Beauty Holdings Loss Prevention team has undergone a meaningful and sustained transformation—one that has redefined what modern loss prevention leadership looks like within our organization. Under new senior leadership, the team intentionally shifted from a traditionally reactive model to a proactive, technology‑enabled, and analytics‑driven strategy. This evolution centered on early loss identification, deep operational partnerships, and sustainable shrink mitigation. Through the design and deployment of enhanced analytics tools and exception‑based reporting, the team gained the ability to detect fraudulent activity at its earliest stages—often at the very first transaction—significantly reducing exposure while strengthening accountability, operational awareness, and enterprise trust. At the same time, the Loss Prevention team expanded its scope beyond isolated loss events to focus on total retail loss and the broader impact to both the business and the customer experience. New strategies and programs were implemented to address store‑level loss, distribution center exposure, and omnichannel risk, with particular emphasis on identifying emerging shrink drivers within middle‑performing stores. This deliberate shift enabled earlier interventions and delivered more durable, long‑term results. What truly sets this team apart is its commitment to partnership. Proactive and consistent collaboration with cross‑functional leaders closed long‑standing communication gaps, accelerated root‑cause identification, and strengthened shared ownership of results—collectively unlocking more than $21 million contributed back to company profitability. Since 2023, these efforts have helped position Sally Beauty Holdings on a trajectory toward a 33% reduction in shrink loss, a result that has been positively recognized by executive leadership and our Board of Directors. Beyond the measurable financial outcomes, this transformation reflects something deeper. The Loss Prevention team embraced change management with intention, demonstrating how leadership shows up every day—for the organization, for our customers, and most importantly, for one another. That deliberate mindset has fundamentally elevated how Loss Prevention is viewed across the enterprise, earning credibility, trust, and respect from business partners and senior leadership alike. This team does not wait for change—they drive it. They are agile, adaptable, and unafraid to challenge convention in pursuit of better outcomes. No one is on the sidelines; every member contributes, every voice matters, and every decision is grounded in data and accountability. I am incredibly proud of this team—their discipline, integrity, and genuine care for our people and our company. They continue to evolve, remain relentlessly focused on the business, and exemplify what it means to be best‑in‑class.
LP LEADER of the year - FINALIST #4:
sobey's loss prevention team
Here is what people are saying about this incredible LP Team:
- It is with great respect and confidence that we submit the Sobeys Inc. Loss Prevention Team for consideration for the LP Team of the Year award. Under the leadership of Vice President Tyler Hove and National Director Sean Sportun, the team has demonstrated exceptional performance, strategic vision, and a steadfast commitment to collaboration, innovation, and community engagement across the organization. Throughout the nomination period, the Sobeys Loss Prevention Team has distinguished itself through the implementation of a comprehensive “Smart on Crime” approach in response to the increasing complexity of theft and security-related challenges across Canada. This approach reflects a disciplined balance between enforcement, prevention, and partnership, ensuring that loss prevention strategies are both operationally effective and socially responsible. By prioritizing proactive measures and informed decision-making, the team has strengthened store-level execution while contributing to a safer retail environment for teammates and customers alike. Central to their success has been the national adoption of the So-Committed initiative, which has unified teams from coast to coast in a shared commitment to community engagement and partnership. Through this initiative, the Loss Prevention Team has successfully organized and delivered programs such as Coffee with a Cop and Cram-a-Cruiser events, creating meaningful opportunities to connect with local law enforcement agencies and support the communities they serve. These efforts have not only enhanced collaboration with policing partners but have also reinforced trust, transparency, and mutual respect between Sobeys and the communities in which it operates. Equally noteworthy is the team’s strong alignment with operational partners across the business. The Sobeys Loss Prevention Team consistently exemplifies the role of a true business partner, working collaboratively with store and field leadership to integrate loss prevention strategies into daily operations. This alignment has contributed to measurable improvements in shrink mitigation, safety awareness, and overall operational effectiveness, while fostering a culture of shared accountability and continuous improvement. The team’s success is further underscored by its unwavering commitment to its people. Internally, the Loss Prevention Team promotes a culture of professionalism, engagement, and knowledge-sharing, ensuring that best practices are consistently elevated across all regions. Externally, their actions reflect a genuine dedication to community well-being, positioning Sobeys as a responsible and trusted corporate citizen. In a year marked by heightened challenges and evolving risks, the Sobeys Inc. Loss Prevention Team has demonstrated leadership, resilience, and innovation at the highest level. Their ability to deliver meaningful results while maintaining a strong focus on collaboration and community impact clearly distinguishes them as an industry leader.
LP Team of the year - FINALIST #5:
The tjx national ORC task force
Here is what people are saying about this collaborative LP Team:
- The TJX National Task Force has been a vital partner in advancing awareness and driving success in the ORC space. What began as a team built around a single idea has grown into the largest retail ORC team in the country, delivering unmatched resources and expertise not only to law enforcement, but also to peer investigators. Widely recognized for their presence at search warrant operations, this team is known as the dependable workhorse you can always count on—arriving with a large crew, a U-Haul, and a readiness to support any operation or partner in need. Collaboration is at the core of their mission, as they seamlessly work cases at the local, state, and federal levels while prioritizing strong, trusted relationships. Innovative and forward-thinking, this team leverages technology and partners with solution providers to identify gaps and develop effective solutions. Though they rarely seek recognition, their impact speaks for itself. They work tirelessly every day to help create safer communities and are equally committed to giving back through community events. Truly, this team stands among the best in the industry
- The TJX National Task Force exemplifies excellence in Organized Retail Crime investigations through unmatched collaboration, innovation, and results-driven partnerships with law enforcement and retail partners. This team consistently protects TJX assets, supports safer communities, and drives impactful ORC case resolutions nationwide. Through proactive intelligence sharing, blitz operations, and relentless investigative efforts, the team has elevated operational standards while strengthening industry relationships and reducing repeat offenders.
it's time to vote!
Voting is open through Wednesday June 3rd. Winners will be announced at NRF PROTECT June 9th and 10th.