Two women from New York are facing shoplifting charges after police say they stole more than $9,000 worth of merchandise from multiple stores at the Garden State Plaza mall in Paramus, New Jersey. Authorities allege the thefts took place Monday afternoon and involved a coordinated effort to bypass store security systems.
According to police, the suspects, identified as Jenai Crawford and Shanique Roberts, were observed moving between several retail locations inside the mall and repeatedly returning to their vehicle parked outside. Officers conducting surveillance reportedly became suspicious after noticing the frequency of the trips and the length of time the women spent inside certain stores.
Law enforcement officials said officers intervened and stopped the suspects before they were able to leave the area. During the investigation, police recovered multiple bags allegedly used to conceal stolen merchandise. Authorities stated that the bags were lined with foil, a method commonly associated with attempts to block anti-theft sensors installed at retail exits.
Inside the bags, police said they found a large quantity of clothing items taken from various stores, including merchandise from Lululemon and other retailers located within the mall. The total estimated value of the recovered items exceeded $9,000, according to investigators.
In addition to the merchandise, officers reported finding tools believed to be intended for defeating or removing security tags attached to clothing. Police said the presence of these items indicated an organized effort rather than an isolated incident of shoplifting. No injuries were reported during the arrest, and authorities confirmed the situation was resolved without incident.
Crawford and Roberts were taken into custody and charged with shoplifting-related offenses under New Jersey law. Officials did not immediately release further details regarding whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues. Both women are scheduled to appear in court at a later date, where the charges will be formally addressed.
Garden State Plaza, one of the largest shopping destinations in the region, has experienced increased security measures in recent years amid concerns over organized retail theft. Law enforcement agencies have emphasized cooperation with mall security and retailers to identify suspicious activity and prevent large-scale losses.
Police have not indicated whether the suspects are connected to other similar incidents in New Jersey or neighboring states. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities encourage retailers and shoppers to report suspicious behavior to help deter retail theft and maintain public safety.
