West LA Times

Santa Monica, CA - Authorities in Santa Monica have made significant progress in the case of the Ulta Beauty store burglary that occurred on March 23, 2024. Following an intense investigation, suspects have been apprehended.

According to the Santa Monica Police Department, the suspects involved in the organized retail theft were tracked to a location in South Los Angeles. Subsequently, on April 11, 2024, a joint operation between SMPD detectives and the LAPD Organized Retail Crime Task Force led to the arrest of three individuals associated with the burglary.

The individuals arrested have been identified as Caleed Jamari Mouton and Eelayia Christine Walker. Mouton, born on March 26, 2000, has a history of prior arrests for gun possession and domestic violence. On the other hand, Walker, born on November 6, 2002, has no prior arrests.

During the operation, law enforcement personnel managed to recover two firearms and stolen merchandise from the Ulta store burglary. The recovered evidence suggests that the burglary at the Santa Monica Ulta store is linked to a larger organized retail theft crime ring that potentially has gang connections.

The suspects have been taken into custody for burglary and are currently being held at the Santa Monica jail for booking. The diligent efforts of the SMPD detectives, in collaboration with the LAPD, have resulted in a significant breakthrough in combating organized retail theft in the area.

The investigation into the organized retail theft crime ring remains ongoing as authorities work to dismantle the criminal network responsible for such unlawful activities.