Connecticut Couple Pleads Guilty to Stealing Nearly $1 Million in Lululemon Goods
A Connecticut couple, Jadion Anthony Richards and Akwele Nickeisha Lawes-Richards, has admitted to stealing from several Lululemon stores in the Twin Cities area, as part of a larger scheme that netted nearly $1 million in stolen goods across the US. The couple pleaded guilty to one count of felony organized retail theft in Ramsey County District Court, as part of a “global resolution” agreement that covers charges filed in both Ramsey and Hennepin counties.
Appearing via Zoom, Richards, 45, and Lawes-Richards, 46, entered their guilty pleas in separate hearings. The charges against them were the first to be brought under a new state law that took effect in August 2023, aimed at addressing organized retail theft. The law was enacted in response to a surge in shoplifting cases across the metro area, including high-profile incidents such as grab-and-run thefts from Best Buy locations on Black Friday in 2021.
Akwele Nickeisha Lawes-Richards, left, and Jadion Anthony Richards (Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)
Theft Scheme and Investigation
According to the criminal complaints, the couple’s theft scheme involved traveling to different areas, hitting multiple Lululemon stores over two days, and then returning to the East Coast to make “unverified exchanges” at stores for other goods, which were later returned to credit cards. The group, which included at least one other person, used tactics such as distracting store associates and blocking their view to steal merchandise.
The Lululemon investigator told police that Richards used at least six credit cards to process nearly a half-million in fraudulent returns. The investigator also explained how the couple carried out the theft scheme, including removing security sensors using a tool and using a strap under their clothing to secure the merchandise.
Organized Retail Theft Law
Minnesota’s organized retail theft law, which took effect in August 2023, aims to address the growing problem of organized retail crime. The law increases penalties for those convicted of organized retail theft, with prison terms of up to 15 years possible if stolen merchandise exceeds $5,000. The law also includes an enhanced penalty if there is a reasonably foreseeable risk of bodily harm to another during the offense.
According to Minnesota Judicial Branch data, prosecutors in 11 counties have filed 45 charges under the law through November 7, with 19 charges filed this year and 24 in 2024. Dakota, Hennepin, Scott, and Washington counties have each secured one conviction.
The couple’s guilty pleas mark the first convictions in Ramsey County under the new law. As part of their plea agreement, other charges against them will be dismissed, and they will be sentenced to probation with restitution ordered. Their sentencing hearings are scheduled for January 30.
For more information on this case, visit Here
Image Source: www.twincities.com
