The Seattle Police Department is aware that organized retail theft is having a negative impact on many local businesses, and because of its concentration of luxury retailers, the University District’s University Village is a frequent target. increase.
Recently, officers of the SPD’s Community Response Group have conducted a coordinated retail robbery operation throughout the city to prevent and deter theft and shoplifting. This Thursday, January 26, GRG officials partnered with seven U-Village retailers within the 2600 block of Northeast University Village Street to search for people suspected of committing crimes of theft and shoplifting. I was. Officers also dealt with other crimes as needed.
Throughout the day, CRG officials working with store employees identified five shoplifters who were observed hiding items and leaving the store without paying for the items. Officers arrested four of her 16-year-old women and one of her 18-year-old women and recovered stolen goods totaling over $1,000.00.
The five suspects are currently not in custody because they are facing misdemeanor charges of shoplifting. However, the SPD plans to pursue criminal charges.
