Seven hours, one cart, $1,300 worth of theft: Outrage after video shows Indian woman caught shoplifting in US

An Indian woman visiting the United States was reported to be under investigation after she was caught shoplifting at a Target store in Illinois. The incident took place in May but its video has started gaining traction on social media in recent days.

The woman was caught after spending over seven hours inside the store, attempting to leave with a cart full of unpaid items valued at approximately $1,300. The incident has sparked widespread outrage both online and among local observers.

According to police, the woman’s unusual behaviour raised suspicion among store staff, prompting them to contact authorities. A video circulating online features a Target employee describing the situation: “We saw this woman roaming around the store for the last seven hours. She was picking up items, checking her phone, moving between aisles, and eventually tried to walk out the west gate without paying.”

In her efforts to resolve the matter, the woman offered to pay for the items, saying, “I am really sorry to bother you if it is. I am not from this country. I am not going to stay here.”

However, during questioning, a woman police officer responded sharply, “Are you allowed to steal things in India? I did not think so.”

The police subsequently handcuffed the woman and took her to the station to complete paperwork. She is currently facing felony charges; although she has not yet been formally arrested, charges are expected to be filed.

The incident occurred on May 1, according to the YouTube channel that posted the video, which said, “The police were called to Target after a woman spent hours inside the store stealing items, ultimately attempting to walk out with thousands of dollars in unpaid merchandise.”

Reaction on social media has been quick and critical. One user commented, “Being an immigrant, I can’t fathom the audacity of being a guest to this country and breaking its laws.” Another wrote, “There is no cultural or language barrier. She knows exactly what she’s doing.” A third added, “Embarrassing India on a global stage! She ended up making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Don’t bring shame to the country abroad. Represent with dignity.”

This case follows closely on the heels of another high-profile theft accusation involving an Indian student in Texas. It serves as a stark reminder that shoplifting charges in the United States can carry severe consequences, including potential impacts on immigration status, such as H-1B visa renewals, green card applications, and even deportation.