CA SB982

Extends the crime of organized retail theft indefinitely, previously set to expire January 1, 2026.

Defines organized retail theft as acting in concert with others to steal merchandise, receiving stolen goods as part of a group, acting as an agent for theft, or recruiting/financing others to commit theft.

Establishes penalties ranging from up to one year in county jail to potential state prison time under Section 1170(h), with enhanced penalties if violations occur on two or more occasions within 12 months and exceed $950 in merchandise value.

Allows prosecutors to consider prior theft conduct in multiple counties, possession of theft-facilitating devices, and merchandise type/quantity as evidence of organized theft without requiring charges against co-participants.

Authorizes courts to impose stay-away orders from retail establishments as a probation condition and exempts the state from reimbursing local agencies for enforcement costs under Proposition 98.