Coon Rapids Police Increase Theft Enforcement During Holiday Shopping Season

The Coon Rapids Police Department is intensifying theft enforcement across the city during the busy holiday shopping season, issuing a clear warning that shoplifting will not be overlooked and that all reported cases will be prosecuted.

In a public advisory, the department said extra theft enforcement is underway throughout Coon Rapids to protect local businesses and the broader community during one of the most active retail periods of the year. The message is aimed at deterring theft while reassuring residents and business owners that police resources are being directed toward keeping shopping areas safe and orderly.

Heightened enforcement during peak retail activity

Law enforcement agencies across Minnesota typically see an uptick in retail theft during the holidays, when stores carry higher volumes of merchandise and experience heavier foot traffic. In Coon Rapids, increased enforcement generally means a stronger police presence in and around shopping centers, closer coordination with store loss prevention teams, and faster response to theft related calls.

Police officials emphasize that these efforts are designed not only to catch offenders but also to prevent theft before it occurs, protecting workers, shoppers, and business owners alike.

Zero tolerance message on shoplifting

The department’s statement that “all shopliftings are prosecuted” underscores a zero tolerance approach. While charging decisions ultimately rest with city or county prosecutors, the police department is signaling that every reported shoplifting incident will be documented and referred for possible criminal charges, regardless of the dollar amount involved.

Officials say the intent is to send a strong deterrent message during a season when theft can significantly impact small and large retailers alike.

What Minnesota law says about shoplifting

In Minnesota, shoplifting is prosecuted under the state’s theft statute, Minnesota Statutes Section 609.52. Penalties depend on the value of the stolen merchandise and, in some cases, the offender’s prior criminal history.

Under current law:

• Theft of property valued at less than $500 is generally charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and or a fine of up to $1,000.
• Theft involving $500 to $1,000 is typically a gross misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to one year in jail and or a fine of up to $3,000.
• Theft exceeding $1,000 can result in felony charges, with potential prison sentences ranging from five to ten years and fines up to $20,000, depending on the amount involved.

In addition, theft charges can escalate to felony level even when the value is relatively low if the offender has a qualifying prior theft conviction within the past five years or if the activity is connected to organized retail crime.

Minnesota law also recognizes concealment of merchandise as evidence of intent to steal. Concealing items on one’s person or in a container inside a store can be sufficient grounds for detention and criminal charges, even if the individual has not yet exited the premises.

Beyond criminal penalties, individuals accused of shoplifting may also face civil liability, allowing retailers to seek restitution and additional damages through civil court.

A reminder for the season

Police say the enforcement push is meant to support a safe and positive shopping experience for everyone. Shoppers are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, report suspicious behavior, and secure personal belongings, while business owners are urged to promptly report theft incidents.

As the holiday season reaches its peak, Coon Rapids police are making clear that retail theft will be taken seriously and addressed through active enforcement and prosecution.

MinneapoliMedia