Two New York residents have been apprehended by the Delaware State Police in connection with an organized retail theft at a Sephora store located in the Christiana Mall in Newark, Delaware. The police reported that Jennifer Valbuena-Martinez, 30, from College Point, and Daniela Cortes-Tibaguy, 20, from Hollis, were detained after being caught shoplifting on August 30, 2024, around 5:38 p.m. according to the Delaware State Police.
Mall security and loss prevention officers were able to quickly apprehend and detain the suspects, who were then seen on surveillance footage attempting to covertly take beauty products off the shelves and place them into their handbags. The stolen items, which were valued at approximately $4,726, were recovered during the incident. The swift response of the mall security played a crucial role in the apprehension of Valbuena-Martinez and Cortes-Tibaguy.
Following their detention, both individuals were taken to Troop 2, where they faced multiple charges. Valbuena-Martinez was charged with Theft – Organized Retail Crime Over $1500 (Felony) and Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony), and according to authorities, was released on her own recognizance after arraignment by Justice of the Peace Court 2. There is currently no mugshot available for Valbuena-Martinez.
Similarly, Cortes-Tibaguy was charged with the same crimes, and subsequently released on her own recognizance following arraignment by Justice of the Peace Court 2. The charges they face carry significant weight, signaling the severity with which the judicial system seeks to deter organized retail crime. It remains to be seen whether these arrests will actively contribute to discourage similar actions in the future by others.
The Delaware State Police continue to investigate the situation and urge anyone with additional information to come forward.
