A roundtable discussion organized by Rep. Anthony D'Esposito and Rep. Nick LaLota brought on a spirited conversation about how to deal with organized retail theft on Long Island.

Speakers, which included members of law enforcement from both Nassau and Suffolk counties, focused on the differences between petty theft and this type of crime, which they say is when people steal items with intent to resell them - often immediately online.

Representatives from Home Depot, Walmart and Walgreens attended and spoke to how these crimes have affected their businesses.

Rep. D'Esposito says this type of crime, by the end of 2024, will cost the U.S. over $300 billion over the last three years.

Officials called on state representatives to make changes to New York's bail reform laws.

Gov. Kathy Hochul did announce a plan to address this issue in the most recent state budget.