Police 'Expanding Efforts' To Combat Organized Retail Crime In Arlington Heights

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Joining over 100 law enforcement agencies across 28 states, the Arlington Heights Police Department is taking part in an organized retail crime initiative this month, which resulted in multiple arrests within hours of launch. During December, the department is partnering with members of the private sector to expand enforcement efforts.

AHPD said participation in the endeavor builds upon being part of the Cook County State's Attorney's Office Regional Organized Crime Task Force in May.

"These local operations are designed to help retailers address seasonal increases in crime and to disrupt the criminal networks engaged in the organized theft and resale of merchandise," AHPD said in a news release.

On Dec. 9, within hours of launching the initiative, AHPD arrested Dasharra J. Cokley, of Vernon Hills, for felony retail theft and resisting arrest. Police said Cokley was also being investigated for two other felony retail theft investigations in previous months at the location. A second person was cited for a misdemeanor count of retail theft. Both were released following their arrests.

According to police, the department will continue operations periodically as a key component of its "broader strategy to address spikes in retail crime."