Big-dollar baby formula thefts dog stores, police across US

The recent arrests of three people accused of stealing thousands of dollars in baby formula in Utah is just the latest example of a problem that's dogged U.S. stores and law enforcement for years.

Logan police say last month they confiscated 422 cans of formula that was stolen from stores in that city and three others in northern Utah.

The high price and broad demand of baby formula make it attractive for thieves, who sell it at flea markets and online. A basic can of the powder starts at about $20 for roughly 20 ounces, and special or prescription blends can cost three times that.

Grocers, retailers and police have been working to combat the issue for about 15 years. They say millions of dollars' worth of formula has been stolen over that time.