CT HB05223

Defines "organized retail theft" as committing larceny by shoplifting of retail property exceeding $2,000 in aggregate value in conjunction with one or more other persons, either within 180 days or by selling/transferring property to a retail property fence.

Defines "retail property fence" as a person who knowingly buys stolen retail property with intent to unlawfully distribute it or facilitate organized retail theft violations.

Makes it a crime to receive, possess, sell, or dispose of retail property acquired through organized retail theft with intent to distribute proceeds or facilitate violations (accessory to organized retail theft).

Establishes that it is not a defense to accessory charges if property was obtained by other means but was explicitly represented to the person as being obtained through organized retail theft.

Violations of organized retail theft or accessory charges are Class D felonies, escalating to Class C felonies if the person derives $10,000 or more in financial benefit.