Retail theft remains a growing issue impacting the safety of businesses and communities alike. A recent WTAJ report highlighted that retail thefts in Philadelphia, PA have surged by 53% between 2021 and 2023, with over 37,000 reported offenses statewide in 2023 alone. Unfortunately, despite the sharp rise, the state’s theft conviction remains less than half, with only 42% of cases resulting in convictions over a five-year period.

These statistics stress the challenges of holding offenders accountable, particularly in difficult markets like Philadelphia. However, ALTO’s strategic approach to retail crime accountability has produced significantly stronger results. With a conviction rate of 57.7% in the greater Philadelphia area—15% higher than the average reported by WTAJ—ALTO is setting a new benchmark in retail safety and accountability.

Moreover, when factoring in dismissed cases that achieved favorable outcomes (such as diversion programs or negotiated conditions), ALTO’s success rate rises to 66.3%. Here, we’ll explore how ALTO’s collaborative and strategic approach achieves these industry-leading outcomes in this challenging market.

ALTO’s Focus on Accountability 

At its core, ALTO bridges the gap between incident reporting and court adjudication, driving crime cases from investigation to resolution. When retailers find themselves stuck in the ‘red zone’ of crime accountability, investigations and arrests may occur, but without consistent follow-up and strategic partnership, offenders easily evade consequences. ALTO steps in to provide the strategic follow-through needed to drive cases to completion, or to the ‘end zone’.

• Evidence Collection and Case Building: ALTO’s on-site teams work with retailers to record incidents, compile surveillance evidence, and gather witness testimony, ensuring that prosecutors have the strongest possible case to work with. 
• Collaboration with Law Enforcement and Prosecutors: ALTO builds partnerships with key stakeholders, including local police and district attorneys, to align on goals and strategies for advancing cases through the legal system. This ensures accountability is prioritized even in jurisdictions where retail theft cases might otherwise be dismissed or deprioritized. 
• Legal Advocacy and Monitoring: Backed by dedicated legal experts, ALTO advocates for victims and retailers’ interests in court while keeping track of case updates. The team works with prosecutors to push for appropriate resolutions, ensuring the best possible outcomes for businesses and communities.

By tackling these challenges, ALTO has achieved a 57.7% conviction rate in greater Philadelphia—far exceeding the state average of under 42%. Additionally, ALTO boasts a 66.3% favorable outcome rate, including cases resolved through diversion or negotiated conditions. ALTO’s comprehensive, data-driven solution ensures that retail crime is effectively addressed with consequences to keep stores and communities safe.

More than just impacting the bottom line, retail crime threatens the safety of employees, customers and communities. Without proper accountability, offenders face little deterrence, increasing the likelihood of repeat offenses. ALTO leverages its expansive network of partnerships, legal expertise and proactive case management to deliver impactful results in even the most challenging markets.

Contact ALTO today to learn how we can turn your reports and investigations into actionable outcomes and accountability.