TikTok Influencer Arrested for Second Time for Shoplifting
Background
Marlena Velez, a 22-year-old TikTok influencer, has been arrested for a second time for shoplifting, this time at a Target store in Florida. Velez had over 360,000 followers on her TikTok account, where she regularly posts content about her life as a mom of two.
The Arrest
Velez was arrested on November 20th, 2022, and charged with theft. According to the authorities, she selected items at the store and used a false barcode to scan some of the merchandise at the self-checkout register. The stolen items, including household goods and clothing, were valued at around $225.
Previous Arrest
This is not Velez’s first arrest for shoplifting. In October, she was arrested in connection with a similar theft case at the same Target store. In that case, she and a man accomplice allegedly stole $500 worth of household goods and clothing using the same false barcode scheme.
Evidence
Police were able to identify Velez through her phone, which had a wallpaper photo that matched her Instagram profile and the previous shoplifting case. Additionally, a man accompanying Velez during the theft had a unique tattoo that matched one seen in some of her TikTok videos.
TikTok Footage
Police also found a video Velez posted on TikTok, showing her getting ready for the day of the theft, wearing the same outfit as the woman seen on Target’s security video. In the video, Velez is seen picking out items inside the store and then taking them home with her.
Conclusion
Velez’s second arrest for shoplifting serves as a reminder that social media influencers are not immune to the law. Her actions have damaged her reputation and those of her followers, who may have been inspired by her content. As a result, Velez’s TikTok account has likely suffered significant damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Marlena Velez arrested for?
A: Velez was arrested for shoplifting at a Target store in Florida.
Q: How many followers did Velez have on her TikTok account?
A: Velez had over 360,000 followers on her TikTok account.
Q: What was the value of the stolen items?
A: The stolen items were valued at around $225.
Q: Has Velez been arrested before for shoplifting?
A: Yes, Velez was arrested in October for a similar theft case at the same Target store.
