KPRC 2 investigates a surge in flash mob shoplifting incidents at Houston Lululemon stores, prompting concerns about the company’s security policies. Witnesses describe brazen thefts and a seeming lack of response from employees. Lululemon defends its approach, citing a focus on inclusivity, but is reportedly adjusting its security measures in response to public pressure.
Flash mob shoplifters have targeted Houston Lululemon stores 51 times in just six months, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchandise while the company’s security policies face mounting criticism from customers and community members.Police reports reveal organized theft rings repeatedly hit three Houston Lululemon locations - Heights, Rice Village, and City Centre - sometimes multiple times in a single day, according to an investigation by KPRC 2 News.
Witnesses describe frightening encounters with thieves who face zero resistance due to Lululemon’s controversial security policies. “I was terrified,” said Jess Schindler, who found herself trapped inside the Heights Boulevard store in February when five men stormed in with large trash bags. “Somebody got knocked over that was right in their pathway. They were just shoveling as much merchandise as possible.” The Canadian athletic wear retailer’s approach to security has sparked concern among Houston residents. George Bates, who witnessed a January theft while shopping with his wife and young children, said he was shocked by the company’s response. A Houston Heights resident talks with KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis about a scary shoplifting experience for his family.“Having that occur so close in proximity and not knowing what may come out of it around my young family,” Bates said. Both he and Schindler said store employees neither called police nor took security measures, but instead, immediately started restocking and returning to business as usual after the thefts. The Heights location was hit three times on this day - at 1:02 p.m., 3:12 p.m., and 4:10 p.m. - with losses exceeding $10,000. Houston Police Officer Mike Medina, who has made multiple arrests in these cases, questioned the company’s security stance. “From what we’ve seen at other department stores is they have some form of security, either inside or outside of the store,” Medina said. The stolen merchandise feeds a thriving illegal resale market. Social media posts reveal “Lulu Boosters” - individuals who steal and resell the products at lower prices - openly advertising their services online.Shoplifting‘boosters' steal from stores and turn the product around online.Just one example: Police arrested 27-year-old Dejah Williams, a fugitive from Mississippi, after two separate incidents. On Jan. 31, she was caught with $23,000 worth of stolen leggings, and days later, she was arrested again with more than $8,000 in merchandise.When questioned about security measures, a store employee told Schindler that Lululemon “fosters inclusivity and peace” and believes police presence would deter customers who fear law enforcement. When KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis asked about this, the company’s corporate office stated they have invested in organized retail crime resources and collaborate with local law enforcement, but did not directly address questions about in-store security measures.At the time Lululemon’s CEO said the employees “knowingly broke the policy, engaged with the thieves ... that was what resulted in the termination.”Following questions from KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis, Lululemon appears to be adjusting its approach. The Heights location now has security guards stationed during business hours and overnight to prevent burglarie
Business Security Lululemon Shoplifting Flash Mob Security Houston Theft
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