Stop the Lift!

Overall, crime in Bellevue has decreased in the past three years to which we say thank you to the Bellevue Police. Still, the most common crime in Bellevue is shoplifting, which many people believe is a “victimless” crime that only hurts the business entity involved. Not true, and Bellevue Police Department has stood firm in its commitment to “Stop the Lift”.

Organized retail theft is often carried out by gangs who conscript young people under 18 to commit the crime. Stolen goods are then sold to provide cash to fund drug operations, sex trafficking and other illegal activities. Some shoplifting incidents result in violence, and all result in a feeling of despair and helplessness as store personnel watch shoplifters walk out the door with thousands of dollars of goods. One tangible result we all see is certain items behind lock and key in stores.

In December 2024 alone, Bellevue Police made 161 shoplifting arrests <insert link> and 854 through the entire year. We applaud and support the Bellevue Police in its efforts to arrest and prosecute those who make our city less safe with this seemingly “victimless” crime.