The Auburn Police Department arrested 10 individuals during a recent retail theft emphasis operation, commonly referred to as a “blitz,” conducted in partnership with Fred Meyer Loss Prevention.

According to the Auburn Police Department, patrol officers, the Community Response Team and detectives took part in the focused operation aimed at addressing rising retail theft.

“While shoplifting is often viewed as a petty crime, retail theft has skyrocketed, and many retailers in the region have been forced to shut down,” police said in a statement.

During the operation, officers coordinated with Fred Meyer loss prevention staff to identify suspected shoplifting activity and make arrests. SCORE Jail provided transportation to assist with booking the suspects into jail, the department said.

The enforcement effort was part of the department’s broader strategy to respond to organized and repeat retail theft incidents impacting businesses and communities.