### Connecticut Couple Charged with $1 Million Lululemon Theft Operation

A couple from Connecticut has been accused of orchestrating an extensive theft operation, allegedly stealing nearly $1 million worth of merchandise from Lululemon stores across the United States, as outlined in a complaint filed in Minnesota District Court. Jadion Richards, 44, and Akwele Lawes-Richards, 45, were apprehended on November 14 at a Lululemon outlet in Woodbury, Minnesota, where they were charged with organized retail theft.

The couple reportedly visited another Lululemon store in Roseville, Minnesota, the previous day, accompanied by an unidentified man, and stole nearly $5,000 worth of merchandise. According to a Lululemon investigator, the duo, along with an organized crime group, has been involved in thefts from Lululemon locations nationwide since September, resulting in approximately $1 million in losses for the company.

The complaint details a scheme where Richards would enter a store first to buy a few small items, during which he and Lawes-Richards would remove security sensors from other products and attach them to the purchased items. They would then conceal other, more valuable items under their clothing. Lawes-Richards and a third accomplice would exit the store with the stolen goods, triggering the store’s security sensors. This would prompt Richards to offer staff his bag containing the small purchases with attached sensors, diverting attention from the actual stolen merchandise. Subsequently, the couple would take the stolen items to other Lululemon stores for exchange without receipts.

In response to these thefts, Tristen Shields, Lululemon's vice president of asset protection, reaffirmed the company's commitment to ensuring the safety of their staff and customers. Shields highlighted how the company's collaboration with law enforcement and investments in advanced technology have been pivotal in tackling retail crime and ensuring accountability for offenders.

Following their arrest, police executed a search warrant on a room Richards had rented at a J.W. Marriott in Bloomington, Minnesota. Authorities discovered suitcases containing an estimated $50,000 worth of Lululemon clothing in the room. Richards and Lawes-Richards were subsequently booked into the Ramsey County Jail on November 14. According to online records, Lawes-Richards was released on $30,000 bail, and Richards on $100,000 bail. Both individuals are required to check in weekly as part of their release conditions.

The couple’s attorneys have not provided any comments regarding the charges. Their next court appearance is scheduled for December 16.