RLP NEWS
ALBANY, N.Y. — Two women have been charged in connection with stealing over $78,000 worth of merchandise from three local stores over a three-month period, Albany County officials announced. The alleged thefts took place at Ulta Beauty in Colonie, LensCrafters in Colonie Center, and Kohl’s on Central Avenue. Authorities believe the incidents are part of a broader organized retail theft operation impacting the region.
Albany County District Attorney David Soares addressed the media during a press conference, highlighting the seriousness of the thefts and the coordinated nature of the operation. “Organized retail theft is a growing concern, and today we’re announcing the arrest and indictment of individuals involved in a much larger criminal ring,” Soares said.
The two suspects, who appeared in court on multiple Class D felony charges, face potential prison sentences of two to seven years if convicted. Law enforcement is also searching for a third suspect believed to be involved in the thefts.
Soares emphasized that these thefts are not isolated incidents. “This is not just an Albany County problem; it’s affecting the entire Capital District, especially in areas with high concentrations of retail stores,” he said.
Store employees, speaking off-camera, reported seeing the suspects walk into the stores and leave with large amounts of merchandise. However, they noted that company policies often prevent staff from intervening in theft situations.
Authorities are urging other retailers who may have been targeted to come forward, and they are working closely with loss prevention experts to prevent further incidents. Soares also referenced a related case in which a local supermarket reported losing over $300,000 in merchandise in just one month, underscoring the scale of the problem.
The investigation into the theft ring is ongoing, and officials are committed to addressing the larger issue of organized retail crime in the Capital District.