Flock Tech Used to Identify Suspects Behind $190,000 Crime Ring

Organized Retail Crime Ring Dismantled With the Help of Flock LPR Cameras

Three suspects were arrested by the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) after being linked to an organized retail crime ring targeting multiple Ulta Beauty locations, resulting in more than $190,000 in losses.

The suspects allegedly entered stores during business hours and used hammers and other tools to smash glass display cases, stealing high-end fragrances before fleeing the scene ahead of police arrival.

“While people were shopping with their families, in broad daylight, the suspects would go in with tools and smash out the glass cases,” said Fairfax County Police Deputy Chief Gregory Fried.

Using Flock License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras, Anne Arundel County Police Department was able to locate the suspect vehicle connected to the thefts. Alerts generated by Flock LPR technology provided law enforcement with timely, actionable leads that ultimately helped identify and apprehend the suspects.

Flock's LPR Virtual Security Perimeter

This case highlights how investing in Flock Safety LPR cameras helps businesses protect customers, employees, and assets, while also equipping law enforcement with the evidence they need to investigate and prosecute criminal activity. In this incident, critical vehicle data captured by Flock cameras played a key role in identifying the suspects and connecting them to the broader retail theft operation.

By deploying LPR cameras across their properties, retailers can create a virtual security perimeter that delivers real-time alerts when known or repeat offenders enter the area, helping prevent future incidents before they escalate.

To learn more about how Flock technology helps solve retail crime, read how Portland police dismantled a major retail theft operation involving stolen gift cards.