Indian Woman Faces Felony Charges After Shoplifting "Made in USA" Products for Brother

An Indian woman may potentially face felony retail theft charges in the United States following a shoplifting incident that was captured on video.

The footage circulating on social media shows the distressed woman tearfully interacting with American police officers after being accused of shoplifting. According to reports, she claimed to have taken clothing items for her brother in India, explaining that he desired 'Made in USA' products but couldn't afford them. In the video, she repeatedly apologizes, insisting she simply "forgot to pay" for the merchandise.

Despite her emotional pleas with folded hands begging officers not to handcuff her and to "give her a chance," the authorities proceeded with standard detention procedures. The woman visibly struggled to comply with officers' instructions to turn around and was eventually handcuffed despite her reluctance.

Through tears, she inquired about what would happen next. Officers explained she would be taken to the station, processed, and likely released within hours. Her request to call her husband was denied by the officers.

Important details including the woman's identity, the specific store location, and the value of the allegedly stolen merchandise remain unconfirmed as authorities continue investigating the case.

NDTV has noted they could not independently verify the video's authenticity.

The incident has triggered significant backlash across social media platforms, with many users expressing embarrassment and concern that such actions damage the reputation of Indian communities abroad.

One social media user commented, "Why do they steal from the US. And from other countries where they travel. They steal from 5 star hotels and supermarkets and even jewellery shops. And guess these are highly educated 1% Indians who can afford foreign education and foreign travel."

Another user remarked, "Cases of Indians caught shoplifting abroad have sparked outrage online & led to warnings from US authorities. Such acts damage the reputation of the entire diaspora. No amount of political symbolism or appeals can override local laws as crime is crime and legal consequences are real."

This is not an isolated incident. In May, another Indian woman faced investigation in the United States for allegedly stealing merchandise valued at approximately Rs 1.1 lakh from a Target store in Illinois. According to reports, she spent over seven hours in the store before attempting to leave with a cart containing unpaid items. Police bodycam footage showed her apologizing and offering payment while stating, "I am really sorry to bother you if it is. I am not from this country. I am not going to stay here." A responding officer questioned, "Are you allowed to steal things in India? I did not think so."