Incident at Target store in the US
New York: An Indian woman was caught shoplifting at a Target store in the United States, with bodycam footage of the incident going viral on social media. The video, recorded on 15 January 2025, shows the woman being questioned by police officers after she allegedly attempted to leave the store with a cart full of unpaid items worth around ₹1.1 lakh (USD 1,000–1,300).
The woman appeared visibly distressed, crying, gasping for breath and hyperventilating as officers questioned her. They repeatedly asked if she required medical assistance or an interpreter, but she declined, stating she could understand English despite Gujarati being her primary language.
View this post on Instagram
Details of the shoplifting case
According to store officials, CCTV footage revealed that the woman spent over seven hours inside the store before attempting to walk past the billing counter with a large number of goods. Reports suggest that she intended to resell the items.
The officers tried to calm her as she struggled to breathe during the interrogation. At one point, she confirmed she was from India. The distressing footage has since circulated widely on social media platforms, sparking debate over the incident.
Wider implications and official response
Washington DC: The incident has raised questions about the consequences for non-resident Indians caught in such cases. Following the viral video, U.S. authorities issued a reminder that even minor crimes such as shoplifting can lead to severe consequences, including visa revocation and denial of future entry into the country.
The U.S. Embassy in India also highlighted that foreign nationals must abide by American laws, warning that criminal behaviour could permanently affect their immigration status.
Reactions and concerns
Delhi: The viral video has triggered mixed reactions online. While some criticised the act of shoplifting, others expressed concern over the woman’s emotional breakdown and whether she was under psychological distress. Many social media users debated the cultural implications and how such incidents affect the reputation of the Indian diaspora abroad.
Experts pointed out that beyond legal penalties, incidents like these can have long-term consequences for individuals and families living overseas. Immigration lawyers noted that shoplifting charges, even if reduced, often remain on record and can resurface in future background checks.
Conclusion
The case highlights the serious legal and social consequences of theft abroad, especially for immigrants and international visitors. As the video continues to spread online, it has become a cautionary reminder of the strict enforcement of laws in the United States and the risks faced by individuals who violate them.