A Los Angeles woman was arrested Dec. 19 for her alleged involvement in a million-dollar retail theft ring in the area targeting beauty products sold in drug stores and specialty makeup stores.
The suspect was identified as Brenda Yanez, 48, by the California Highway Patrol’s Organized Retail Crime Taskforce.
Ms. Yanez is accused of involvement in the ring that targeted multiple stores, including Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Nordstrom, CVS, Rite Aid, and the 99 Cents Only Store.
She was arrested on charges of organized retail theft, grand theft, and receiving stolen property, according to authorities.
Authorities executing search warrants at two Los Angeles area locations—a warehouse in Paramount in East Los Angeles and The Makeup Store on Whittier Boulevard, also in East Los Angeles—discovered a large stash of stolen beauty items and merchandise in boxes at both locations.
Pictures from the search warrant reported by local news outlet KTLA News show an array of cosmetic and beauty products—including face creams, mascara, lotion, makeup foundation, and more.
Authorities estimate the retail value of the stolen merchandise to exceed $1 million.
Tools to remove anti-theft protection devices were also found at the scene of the crime, authorities reported.
