Organized Retail Theft Ring Busted by Bellevue Police

The Bellevue Police Department, after an extensive investigation into organized retail thefts at Nordstrom in Bellevue Square Mall, has arrested multiple suspects involved in a series of incidents between September and November 2023.

A veteran Bellevue Police Detective and members of the Bellevue Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team spearheaded the inquiry into the thefts, which involved the targeted stealing of designer sunglasses valued at approximately $20,000. Detectives painstakingly investigated the occurrences, and yesterday four suspects were formally charged in King County Superior Court. The suspects charged are:

Larae R. Hamim, a 25-year-old female, has been charged with five counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Joanna D. Fernandez, a 24-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Reality T. Leavens, a 19-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Taladra M. Swan, a 27-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

All four suspects are scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday, January 3rd at the King County Courthouse.

The Bellevue Police Department, in collaboration with Nordstrom’s investigative team and Kemper Development Security, which provides security at Bellevue Square Mall, compiled substantial evidence, including surveillance footage and documentation of the stolen items. The investigation revealed the method of operation of the suspects, who would enter the store in a group and then swiftly steal numerous designer sunglasses and conceal them within their clothing and bags before leaving.

Bellevue Police Investigations Major Mark Tarantino, speaking about this case, highlighted the depth of the investigation, stating, “I am very proud of our investigators in this case, who meticulously connected the dots between the suspects and their involvement in these thefts.” Tarantino continued: “Our focus on reducing retail theft will continue, and we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring accountability.”

Additionally, the investigation unveiled connections between the suspects and prior criminal incidents, underscoring the department’s commitment to tracking down and prosecuting individuals engaged in organized criminal activities.

The Bellevue Police Department urges anyone with information regarding any criminal activities to come forward and assist in ongoing investigations by contacting CrimeStoppers.