CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A 22-year-old TikTok influencer with nearly 300,000 followers was arrested after allegedly using fake barcodes to steal from Target and posting a video of herself getting ready for the alleged theft, according to authorities.
Amazon Black Friday Deals You Cannot Miss!
The Cape Coral Police Department responded last Wednesday to a report of retail theft at a Target located at 1890 NE Pine Island Road. The theft reportedly occurred on Oct. 30, according to a statement released by the department.
“Loss Prevention at Target stated that on October 30, 2024, an unknown female entered the store and selected items listed for sale,” the police report said. “Once at the self-checkout register, the female suspect did not scan the items’ barcodes, instead scanning a false barcode with cheaper prices.”
In total, the suspect stole 16 household and clothing items valued at $500.32, which officers later confirmed through surveillance footage.
Avoid Home Invasions With These Essential Security Devices
Identifying the Suspect
To seek public assistance, the Cape Coral Police Department posted surveillance images of the suspect on its Facebook and Instagram accounts, describing her as a woman aged 20-35 with long black hair, wearing a tan shirt, tan pants, and glasses.
Upgrade to a Modern Christmas Tree for a Stunning, Effortless Festive Season!
An anonymous tipster who saw the post contacted police and identified the suspect as Marlena Velez, a TikTok content creator.
“Officers then found Marlena’s TikTok account, which documents her getting ready on October 30, 2024, in the same outfit and glasses and going to Target,” police stated. “Marlena documents herself picking out items inside the store and placing them in her car after exiting the store. Marlena appears to be a content creator with almost 300,000 followers.”
Revolutionize Your Kitchen With The Power of These Air Fryers
Charges Filed
Velez was arrested and taken to the Lee County Jail, where she was charged with petit theft for stealing goods valued at less than $750.
Get Your “Wicked” Merch and Tickets Here!
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional charges may follow.
