A Connecticut couple, Jadion Richards, 44, and Akwele Lawes-Richards, 45, have been charged with organized retail theft in connection with an elaborate two-month theft spree at Lululemon stores across the country. The couple was estimated to have stolen about $1 million worth of products during this time period. They were arrested on Nov. 14 in Woodbury, Minnesota, after being stopped by security at a Lululemon store.
The couple allegedly used various tactics to steal from the stores, including distracting associates while one stuffed products into their clothing and strategically exiting the store with stolen items. They were also accused of blocking security cameras and using deception.
Officers found multiple credit and debit cards, as well as suitcases filled with Lululemon clothing in the couple’s possession at the time of their arrest. The Lululemon investigator mentioned that the couple had stolen products in states like Colorado, New York, and Connecticut, in addition to Minnesota.
Richards claimed that he was racially profiled after being stopped by security, but the couple denied any involvement in the thefts. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 16, and they are currently being held at the Ramsey County jail in Minnesota. Attorneys representing the couple did not respond to inquiries from USA TODAY.
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