NY Retail Theft Ring Busted: Macy's, Ulta Beauty, Other Retailers Targeted in $1M Fencing Operation

By Leira Aquino

May 09, 2024 01:12 AM EDT

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Two New Yorkers, along with their business Rehana’s Cosmetics Inc., face charges for running an organized retail theft ring in Midtown Manhattan, with them reselling over $1 million in stolen goods from retailers such as Macy’s and Ulta Beauty.
(Photo : Justin Sullivan / Getty Images)

Two New Yorkers were arrested on Wednesday for allegedly possessing over $1 million in stolen goods and running a resale operation from their business in Midtown Manhattan, according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr.

The defendants, Bibi Rehana Khan, 54, and Aaron Khan, 40, along with Rehana's Cosmetics Inc., were indicted for their involvement in an organized retail theft ring that targeted Macy's, Ulta Beauty, and several other retailers.

Manhattan DA's Probe Reveals Major Retailers' Role in Retail Theft Case

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., revealed that the investigation stemmed from a long-term effort involving cooperation from major retailers like Macy's, Ulta Beauty, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. 

The defendants face charges including Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the First Degree, Second Degree, and Third Degree.

District Attorney Bragg emphasized the significant impact of retail theft on local businesses and the safety of both employees and customers. 

He stressed the importance of utilizing all available tools to tackle the underlying causes of this issue.

Court documents and statements from the authorities indicate that Rehana's Cosmetics Inc., operating online and at 870 6th Avenue in Manhattan, possessed a vast array of stolen goods. 

These included cosmetics, beauty supplies, medications, electronic devices, clothing, designer handbags, toys, kitchenware, and household appliances.

READ NEXT: Retail Giants Like T.J. Maxx Report Multiple Theft Cases From Organized Crime Rings

Macy's Hit Hard: $212,000 Worth of Stolen Goods

$212,000 worth of the merchandise was traced back to Macy's, indicating a substantial impact on the retailer. 

The stolen merchandise also included items from CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Duane Reade, Ulta Beauty, Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, and the NHL Store.

In response to the growing concern of retail theft, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office has initiated proactive measures, which include creating partnerships with businesses like Ulta Beauty and CVS to combat organized retail crime rings. 

READ MORE: Macy's Ditches $5.8 Billion Takeover Bid After Investor Arkhouse Threatens to Take Offer Directly to Shareholders

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