"Sorry, I Forgot to Pay": Indian Woman Allegedly Caught Shoplifting At US Store

A video of an Indian woman tearfully pleading with US police officers over a shoplifting accusation has surfaced online. She reportedly told police that she had taken the clothing items for her brother back in India, who was fond of 'Made in USA' products but couldn't afford them. A video of the incident circulating on social media shows the woman crying and apologising to police officers after after being accused of shoplifting. She claimed she forgot to pay for the items, pleading with police with folded hands, not to handcuff her and begging them to "give her a chance."

The woman continued crying and didn't follow the officers' repeated instructions to turn around. Despite her reluctance, the woman was eventually handcuffed. The woman, still in tears, asked the officers what would happen to her after being handcuffed. They explained she'd be taken to the station, processed, and likely released within hours. She then asked to call her husband, but the officers refused her request. She may face felony retail theft charges, according to reports.

Details such as her identity, the store's exact location, and the value of the stolen items have not been officially confirmed. Authorities are currently investigating the case. 

NDTV couldn't independently verify the authenticity of the video.

The video led to widespread condemnation on social media, with many users expressing embarrassment and arguing that such actions tarnish the image of the Indian community abroad. 

One user wrote, "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 commented, "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."

In May, another Indian woman was investigated in the US for allegedly stealing merchandise worth about Rs 1.1 lakh from a Target in Illinois. She reportedly spent more than seven hours inside the store before attempting to leave with a cart full of unpaid items. Police bodycam footage showed the woman apologising and offering to pay, saying, "I am really sorry to bother you if it is. I am not from this country. I am not going to stay here." A police officer responded, "Are you allowed to steal things in India? I did not think so."