Two women were arrested in Peachtree City, Georgia after a high-speed police chase that followed a theft at a local Lululemon store. Authorities say the suspects are connected to an organized retail crime ring targeting stores across metro Atlanta.
According to the Peachtree City Police Department, the incident began when Evaria Billings and Shanteanna Johnson allegedly left the Peachtree City Lululemon store with thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise. While the store itself did not immediately notify police, the company’s corporate office alerted authorities.
When officers attempted to stop the suspects in a stolen rental vehicle, the driver accelerated, triggering a pursuit that reportedly reached speeds of over 100 mph. The chase ended with both suspects taken into custody.
Investigators recovered the stolen merchandise and discovered tools designed to bypass retail security devices inside the vehicle. Police identified Billings as the alleged getaway driver, and she now faces more than 20 traffic-related charges in addition to theft allegations.
Authorities believe the incident is part of a larger organized retail theft operation targeting Lululemon locations and other retailers throughout the metro Atlanta area. Officials noted that profits from such theft rings can sometimes fund broader criminal activities, including those tied to organized crime groups.
Chris Hyatt, a lieutenant with the Peachtree City Police Department, said the arrests represent a major step in stopping a group that had been avoiding law enforcement across the region. Investigators believe the suspects may be connected to multiple similar thefts, which could amount to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise.
Billings and Johnson are currently being held at the Fayette County Jail. Police say additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
