An Indian woman was confronted by police after allegedly attempting to shoplift merchandise from a Target store in the United States, according to video footage released online.
The incident, which took place on January 15, shows the woman visibly distressed—sobbing, gasping for breath, and hyperventilating—while officers questioned her. At one point, an officer told her: “Right now, you’re not free to leave.”
The woman, who reportedly holds a Washington-issued driver’s license, identified Gujarati as her primary language and confirmed she was from India. Despite her breathing difficulties, she declined the need for a translator.
Target staff presented CCTV evidence showing the woman leaving the store with a cart of unpaid items. When questioned, she admitted she intended to resell some of the merchandise. Employees described her as a regular customer, though this was the first recorded instance of theft. Police informed her she would be required to appear in court.
The case has gained attention after bodycam footage of the incident circulated online, sparking discussions on social media.
In a separate July incident, another Indian woman was investigated for allegedly attempting to steal merchandise worth about $1,300 (₹1.1 lakh) from a Target store in Illinois. Footage from that case showed her apologizing and offering to pay, telling officers: “I am not from this country. I am not going to stay here.” A responding officer replied, “Are you allowed to steal things in India? I didn’t think so.”
Both incidents highlight growing concerns among retailers and law enforcement over organized and repeat theft cases, as well as the cultural misunderstandings that sometimes arise during such encounters.