Austin Shoplifters Hit Target^®, Kohl's^®, Lowe's^® in Major Theft Operation

By Robert W. • Jan 07, 2025

In Austin, Texas, it seems some folks forgot their wallets — and their morals — while holiday shopping. The Austin Police Department recently responded to an alleged shoplifting blitz operation near Lakeline Mall, resulting in nine arrests and the recovery of $7,500 worth of stolen merchandise. From baby strollers to flatbed carts, here's how the drama unfolded.

Strolling Away With Style at Kohl's^®

Austin Shoplifters Hit Target, Kohl's, Lowe's in Major Theft Operation-2

What's sneakier than a baby stroller? Apparently, a baby-less stroller. Four suspects at Kohl's decided to test this theory by allegedly stuffing it full of unpaid merchandise, totaling $1,100. Their master plan fell apart when police confronted them outside the store. The quartet abandoned the stroller and tried to make a run for it. Spoiler alert: They didn't get far.

Police later discovered an additional $1,200 worth of stolen goods in their getaway vehicle. The suspects — Melain Gomez, Alexis Garza, Jesus Jimenez-Gomez, and Jessica Gomez — now face charges of engaging in organized criminal activity.

Lowe's^® Repeat Offender: The AC Bandit

Austin Shoplifters Hit Target, Kohl's, Lowe's in Major Theft Operation-3

Meanwhile, over at Lowe's, Javier Rios decided to spread some holiday cheer by allegedly helping himself to a flatbed cart carrying a $2,156 air conditioning unit, as reported by Fox News. When police caught up with him, they found an extra $609 shower kit in his vehicle, also reportedly stolen from Lowe's earlier that day.

Rios, described as a high-value repeat offender, was arrested for theft and slapped with additional charges for outstanding larceny warrants. Apparently, Rios prefers his Christmas shopping list to come with a side of felony charges.

Target^® Takes a Hit

Austin Shoplifters Hit Target, Kohl's, Lowe's in Major Theft Operation-4

Target seemed to be the unofficial hotspot for shoplifting shenanigans this holiday season. In one case, 23-year-old Donovan Clausen was reportedly caught red-handed with $613.70 in stolen merchandise. After fleeing on foot, Clausen reunited with his accomplice, 44-year-old Christina Shell, at his vehicle. Inside, police uncovered $1,050 worth of allegedly stolen beauty products and jewelry, plus some narcotics for good measure.

Clausen now faces charges for theft and unlawful possession of a controlled substance, while Shell is charged with two counts of drug possession. Pro tip: If you're going on a shoplifting spree, maybe leave the drugs at home.

The Cart-Abandoning Culprit

Not to be outdone, 54-year-old Martin Morales made his own mark on Target's naughty list. Employees spotted him allegedly loading a cart with goodies before ditching it outside and fleeing in a vehicle driven by 44-year-old Crystal Overby. Police later apprehended both, discovering that Overby had an outstanding warrant for her arrest.

Shoplifting: Bigger Stores, Bigger Temptation

Austin Shoplifters Hit Target, Kohl's, Lowe's in Major Theft Operation-5

According to Molly McClanahan, assistant manager of Hemline Austin, theft is a year-round issue, especially at larger stores. "There is more space to kind of hide or more space to run," she said, as reported by Fox News. At Hemline, they combat shoplifting with limits on fitting room items and door chimes.

While these thieves may have dreamed of a "five-finger discount" holiday, they'll be spending this season behind bars. Lesson learned: Santa may have a naughty list, but the Austin PD has handcuffs.

References: Texas police arrest 9 suspects allegedly involved in 4 cases near suburban mall in shoplifting blitz operation | 'Shoplifting blitz' near Lakeline Mall; 9 arrested