Aziza Graves, a 43-year-old California thief, used Target’s self-checkout service to steal over $60,000 worth of merchandise in a shoplifting spree that occurred over the course of 100 visits to the retail store. Between October 3, 2020, and November 16, 2021, Graves visited the Target at the Stonestown Galleria in San Francisco 120 times. During her scheme, she would pick items from the shelves, go to the self-checkout counter, scan the items, and pay a nominal amount before leaving the store. Graves was eventually arrested in November 2021 after investigators and the San Francisco Police Department followed her inside and around the store.
After stealing items from Target, Graves would go to the city’s United Nations Plaza, where she sold the stolen goods to anyone passing by. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins condemned the increase in shoplifting in the area, highlighting the negative impact it has on businesses of all sizes in San Francisco. Retail theft continues to be a major issue affecting small mom-and-pop stores as well as large retail chains. Jenkins emphasized the harm caused by individuals like Graves, who engage in repeated and brazen thefts, impacting retailers’ ability to operate and serve the public.
Following her shoplifting spree, Graves was convicted on one felony count of grand theft and 52 misdemeanor petty theft counts. Originally facing eight felony counts of grand theft and 120 misdemeanor counts of petty theft, Graves is currently out of custody and faces up to three years in state prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 24. Jenkins stressed the importance of holding shoplifters accountable for their actions, stating that such crimes have a significant impact on retailers and the public’s ability to benefit from local businesses.
Jenkins expressed the need to send a message to others engaged in open and brazen thefts by prosecuting and pursuing those involved with the support of local law enforcement partners. The verdict in Graves’ case underlines San Francisco’s stance of not tolerating offenders who take advantage of the business community. By emphasizing accountability and the consequences of shoplifting, Jenkins aims to deter others from committing similar crimes. The citizens of San Francisco are depicted as standing against individuals who engage in theft and hinder the operation of businesses in the area.
The case of Aziza Graves serves as an example of the impact of shoplifting on retailers, law enforcement, and the general public. Through the coordinated efforts of investigators, the San Francisco Police Department, and the District Attorney’s Office, Graves was apprehended and held accountable for her crimes. Jenkins’ condemnation of shoplifters who disrupt business operations and harm the public highlights the need for continued vigilance and prosecution of individuals engaged in such criminal activities. By upholding accountability and sending a strong message against theft, San Francisco aims to create a safe and secure environment for its businesses and residents, deterring future instances of shoplifting.
