Photo: Cape Coral Police Department
A TikTok influencer from Florida was arrested after posting a video on the social media platform showing items that were allegedly shoplifted from Target. The Cape Coral Police Department said that 22-year-old Marlena Velez was arrested and charged with petty theft for shoplifting 16 items worth around $500.
Authorities said that Velez allegedly used the self-checkout and scanned false barcodes with cheaper prices.
Investigators were able to track down Velez thanks to the help of people on social media. The department shared a surveillance photo of Velez pushing a red shopping cart and asked the public if anybody knew her.
Investigators received numerous tips, including one person who provided the police with Velez's full name, date of birth, and social media handles. While viewing her TikTok videos, officers found several videos posted on the day of the theft. In the videos, Velez was wearing the same clothes as the woman in the surveillance footage. In another video, she showed herself walking through the store and picking out the items she was accused of shoplifting.
"Everything was documented," said Mercedes Phillips with the Cape Coral Police Department.
Velez was released on bail of $150 and is due back in court on December 10.