A Rite Aid store in Compton, California, has locked almost all its merchandise behind glass cases due to a surge in shoplifting and organized retail crime. Customers must request assistance to access items, including everyday grocery products, raising concerns about the shopping experience and store safety. Rite Aid's measures are part of a broader trend as retail theft escalates across California, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to sign legislation imposing harsher penalties for such offenses. As part of their response, Rite Aid stated they are collaborating with law enforcement and community leaders to address the impacts of retail theft and promote safety. Eyewitness accounts describe the environment inside the store as uncomfortable, with customers expressing frustration over the wait times for assistance. The situation reflects a growing epidemic of theft that has led many retailers to reconsider their security strategies and operational practices.