San Francisco officials say retail theft arrests are increasing as police increase enforcement efforts across the city.

The San Francisco Police Department reported a nearly 20% decline in larceny cases so far this year. SFPD said officers made 844 arrests for retail theft during the past six months, a 27% increase compared with the previous six-month period.

"In the last 12 months, we've seized over $410,000 in stolen merchandise," SFPD Chief Derrick Lew said.

Police highlighted recent enforcement actions, including the arrest of two suspects accused of stealing more than $1,600 worth of merchandise from a local Gap store two weeks ago.

Some shoppers say they have noticed improvements.

"There are problems in some stores but I think it's really improved a lot," San Francisco resident Susan McBride said.

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Despite the reported decline in theft, some retailers continue to face challenges.

Signs outside the Lucky grocery store on Fulton Street indicate the store will close Friday. District 2 Supervisor Stephen Sherrill said retail theft contributed to the closure and said other grocery stores are also affected.

"So for us, putting the pedal down and making sure that officers and investigators are in these stores, making arrests is incredibly important. We're making progress. But I think we still have a long way to go," Sherrill said.

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Cal-Mart Supermarket in his district tells ABC7 Eyewitness News that organized retail theft has declined but remains an issue in the area.

City officials said efforts contributing to the increase in retail theft arrests include increased enforcement, strengthened partnerships with retailers and a focus on repeat offenders.

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Mayor Daniel Lurie also issued a warning to those committing theft.

"If you come to San Francisco to steal, we will arrest you. We will prosecute you. We will hold you accountable," Lurie said.

City leaders said they plan to conduct additional retail theft enforcement blitz operations across San Francisco as part of the ongoing crackdown.

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