Two women, Janiyah Robinson, 19, and Ayonna Robinson, 24, were arrested in connection with a series of grab-and-go thefts across Philadelphia’s Center City and suburban Montgomery County. Police are still searching for seven more suspects allegedly involved in the crime ring.
According to Philadelphia police, Janiyah Robinson led the group, recruiting individuals with clean records, including teenagers and even a 9-year-old. “It’s absolutely unbelievable that this adult would use a 9-year-old to commit a crime,” said Police Inspector Ray Evers. “At least two times we have her on video entering a store with a trash bag and loading up.”
The group targeted high-end stores, primarily Lululemon outlets, in locations such as Ardmore, King of Prussia, and Center City, police reported. The suspects rushed into stores with trash bags, grabbing expensive merchandise and fleeing within minutes.
The stolen goods are estimated at $75,000, with incidents dating back to November 2023. Notable thefts include approximately $10,000 worth of merchandise taken from Lululemon at Suburban Square in Lower Merion, $20,000 from the King of Prussia Mall, and over $40,000 in thefts from a Lululemon store on Walnut Street.
The stolen items were sold at local bars or online. The two arrested women face multiple charges, while authorities have set a high bail of $180,000 to send a strong message about retail theft.
“This sends a very strong message,” said Inspector Evers. “If you participate in retail thefts, you’re part of an organization and you’ll face stiff consequences.” Police continue to investigate the crime ring and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
