KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Retail theft is on the rise in Tennessee.
That's the word from Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association President and CEO Rob Ikard.
On April 25, Maryville chef Clement Milanzi was arrested by police and accused of stealing thousands of dollars of meat at grocery stores in Knoxville, Lenoir City and Maryville.
Milanzi worked at Joe's Italian Cuisine in Maryville and police said the food he stole, some stuffed into his pants, was consistent with food served at an Italian restaurant.
"This is not the first time that we've heard of a restaurant owner stealing food for his restaurant," Ikard told 10News. "But it is shocking to hear it does fall in line with a trend that we're seeing. There is much increased retail theft going on in the retail sector in general. And in grocery in particular, the temptation to get free food for use or for resale is very great during these inflationary times."
Although stealing is a crime in Tennessee, a shoplifter has to swipe at least $1,000 worth of items to be charged with a felony.
Ikard said people don't just steal food to serve at a restaurant, often times they take items off the grocery shelves and sell them online later on.
"There are a lot of enterprising thieves out there who are doing a booming business of stealing product and selling it at a discount," Ikard said. "And we know that the retail industry and the grocery industry in particular are laser-focused on stopping this trend. We are watching very carefully. And we're going to make sure that we prosecute every violation to the max."
Milanzi was arrested at Kroger's Northshore location in Knoxville.
Kroger spokeswoman Lauren Bell said that the grocer is fed up with thieves in a statement below:
"At Kroger, we are truly disappointed by the rising crime rates affecting retail establishments and the negative consequences they have on our valued customers. Ensuring their safety is our utmost concern, which is why we are dedicated to collaborating closely with local law enforcement to tackle this issue head-on. We have already implemented various security measures to deter crime and effectively handle any potential incidents. However, we are fully committed to exploring and implementing further solutions to enhance the security within our stores."
Ikard said grocery store workers can protect themselves and the stores from theft.
"I think that for retailers and grocers, it's important to greet your customers and watch them and be helpful to them and communicate with them while they're in the store," Ikard said. "That way they know that you're there to help. They also know that you're paying attention and you're not going to let them get away with robbing them blind."
Milanzi is due back in court on May 6.