Chief Will Johnson discusses surge in organized cargo theft at congressional hearing

In a recent meeting of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, significant concerns were raised regarding the alarming rise in cargo theft across the nation. Chief Will Johnson, a prominent figure in law enforcement and the Second Vice President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, provided critical testimony highlighting the urgent need for coordinated federal action to combat this escalating issue.

Chief Johnson reported a staggering 1500% increase in strategic cargo theft within the trucking industry from 2022 to 2025, which now accounts for one-third of all cargo theft incidents reported by Cargo Net. The Association of American Railroads also noted over 65,000 thefts in 2024, marking a 40% rise from the previous year. These thefts not only threaten the safety of the public—often involving the sabotage of rail safety equipment—but also jeopardize national food security. Reports indicate that criminal tampering with food shipment seals has contributed to rising food prices, exacerbating inflation.

The complexity of cargo theft cases, which frequently cross state lines, complicates jurisdictional coordination and prosecution efforts. Chief Johnson emphasized that the absence of a unified federal enforcement strategy hampers effective legal action against these crimes. He identified three main profiles of suspects involved in cargo theft: members of transnational organized crime, loosely organized street gangs, and opportunistic criminals.

The testimony underscored the need for a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to address the evolving nature of cargo theft, which is increasingly characterized by violent tactics, including armed robberies. As the committee continues to explore solutions, the implications of these discussions resonate deeply, highlighting the intersection of crime, public safety, and economic stability in the United States. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among law enforcement agencies and federal authorities to tackle this pressing issue effectively.