Tukwila police on Thursday put out surveillance images of two suspects they say scooped up roughly $4,000 in merchandise from a department store, sprinted out the front, and jumped into a waiting getaway car as officers opened a formal investigation.
Police release images and case number
According to the Tukwila Police Department, the incident has been classified as organized retail crime and logged as case #26TP02996. Investigators say the pair grabbed merchandise staged near the door, bolted, and vanished into the waiting vehicle. The department is asking anyone who recognizes the suspects to send a message through the post or contact investigators with tips.
Retail‑theft detective leads probe
Retail Emphasis Detective Robert Mosley is leading the investigation and, according to the department’s news page, has been coordinating with law enforcement partners and retailers across the region. Police have asked that tips be emailed directly to [email protected] for this case, and they also point residents and visitors to the city’s non‑emergency line for anyone who would rather talk with an officer. Investigators note that the email address is shared with regional organized retail crime partners, while the police page lists the non‑emergency phone number for callers.
Why Tukwila is focusing on ORC
Organized retail crime has become a hot‑button issue regionally as coordinated crews target high‑value items that can be quickly resold, prompting joint efforts by retailers, police departments, and prosecutors. Industry guidance and statewide pilot programs have zeroed in on information‑sharing, focused enforcement, and diversion options as key tools to disrupt theft rings that feed online marketplaces and fencing networks.
Legal stakes
Under Washington law, organized retail theft charges depend on the value of the property taken. First‑degree organized retail theft involves $5,000 or more and is a class B felony. Second‑degree charges cover losses of at least $750 but less than $5,000 and are a class C felony. Prosecutors are allowed to aggregate multiple thefts committed within a 180‑day period when filing charges, which can push repeat incidents into higher degrees and stiffer penalties.
How to help
If you recognize either person, the Tukwila Police Department is asking you to reply to the Facebook post or email Detective Mosley at [email protected]. You can also call the Tukwila Police non‑emergency line via the City of Tukwila police page and ask to speak with an officer about case #26TP02996.
