Governor Kathy Hochul and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz Unveil Takedown of Suspects Allegedly Responsible for $2 Million in Stolen Retail Goods
Operation “Fashionably Fencing” Leads to Arrests
Tuesday, Governor Kathy Hochul and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the takedown of suspects allegedly responsible for $2 million in stolen retail goods. The operation, dubbed “Fashionably Fencing,” resulted in the arrests of two Queens residents and a crackdown on a sophisticated shoplifting ring.
The Investigation
Prosecutors said husband-and-wife duo Yvelisse Guzman Batista and Cristopher Guzman, both residents of Kew Gardens Hills, allegedly operated the illegal business. They directed a horde of shoplifting crews, also known as boosters, to steal large quantities of merchandise from storefronts.
The stolen goods were then sold from the couple’s home, online, and out of a brick-and-mortar store in the Dominican Republic. Authorities said the duo even resorted to bribing truck drivers to divert products bound for retailers such as Sephora and Ulta Beauty from manufacturer warehouses directly to locations under their control.
Arrests and Charges
The operation was carried out with the help of undercover operatives who made controlled purchases of merchandise from the suspects after contacting them via social media. Upon their arrests, law enforcement agents found more than $1 million in products in Batista’s and Guzman’s possession.
Both suspects were charged with fostering the sale of stolen goods, a newly adopted crime in New York. This marks the first time anyone has been charged with this crime in the state.
Impact of the Takedown
The takedown has significant implications for retailers, as it highlights the severity of the issue and the measures being taken to address it. The operation is also a warning to consumers to be cautious when making purchases, especially during the holiday season.
Conclusion
The takedown of the shoplifting ring is a significant step forward in the fight against retail theft. With the help of undercover operatives and the cooperation of the community, law enforcement officials were able to bring to justice those responsible for the illegal activities.
