Washington County Leaders Announce New Retail Theft Arrest Policy

Posted July 16, 2026

HILLSBORO, Ore- The Washington County District Attorney's Office, in partnership with all Washington County law enforcement agencies, is announcing a new presumptive arrest and booking policy for retail theft. For all misdemeanor and felony retail thefts, law enforcement will presumptively arrest and book suspects in the Washington County Jail when legally justified, rather than issuing a criminal citation to appear in court at a later date.

In a recent letter addressed to the business community, DA Kevin Barton joined Washington County law enforcement agencies to announce the presumptive arrest and booking policy and to urge retailers to report all crime to law enforcement and to review their vehicle removal policies.

DA Barton and Washington County law enforcement agencies informed retailers that Washington County and its vibrant economy are targets for criminals. Case data shows that a significant percentage of retail theft in Washington County is committed by non-residents. Reporting theft, arresting criminals, and removing their vehicles are steps that will help stop and deter crime.

"We have a zero-tolerance policy in our community for crime, including retail theft," said Washington County DA Kevin Barton. "With this renewed focus on accountability and deterrence, we are sending a clear message to criminals who commit theft in our community: you will be arrested and prosecuted."

Addressing retail theft is a priority in Washington County. In 2022, the DA's Office created a countywide task force and obtained approximately $3 million in grant funds. Funding has been distributed to retail businesses to upgrade security systems and to law enforcement agencies to support retail theft enforcement missions, to purchase needed equipment, and to cover law enforcement overtime.

"Retail theft harms local businesses, employees, and the sense of safety we work hard to protect in Washington County," said Washington County Sheriff Caprice Massey. "This new arrest and booking policy strengthens our ability to hold offenders accountable and supports the retailers who are vital to our community. When crimes are reported, we can respond quickly, take meaningful action, and help prevent future theft."

The Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon (ORCAOR) is a key partner in this effort. ORCAOR President Jeremy Girard knows the impact of retail theft on businesses and their employees.

"I commend the Washington County District Attorney's Office and Washington County law enforcement partners for this initiative and for sending a clear message that organized retail crime and retail theft will not be tolerated in Washington County," Girard said. "Strong partnerships and accountability are critical to protecting our retailers, employees, and communities.

The new arrest and booking policies are already in effect.

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