WESTLAKE, Ohio (WOIO) – At least five Westlake beauty store thefts are being connected to an Akron couple who were using small kids as distractions to help them steal thousands in goods.
According to Westlake Police, a 34 year-old woman from Akron and 35 year-old Durrell McDowell, also of Akron, were charged with felony theft after being arrested last week following an investigation.
Police were called on July 24 to the Sephora in Westlake after a woman was suspected of stealing $1,500 in goods from the beauty store. The suspect, who was working with another customer, filled a large purse with products from designer brands like Gucci, Dior and YSL. According to police the theft took place as 2-3 kids were running around the store, appearing to be distractions or lookouts…