Woman Stole Thousands Of Dollars Worth Of Gum In South OC, Police Say

IRVINE, CA — A woman who allegedly stole thousands of dollars worth of chewing gum in South Orange County was sought by Irvine police officers this week.

On Jan. 27, the woman was captured on surveillance cameras stealing around $1,800 worth of gum from a store in Irvine, the Irvine Police Department reported.

She exited the store without paying and loaded up the stolen items in her car, authorities said.

The woman is suspected of committing similar gum thefts across Orange County, and Irvine police released her image Thursday in hopes that someone can burst her bubble.

Typically, the stolen items will likely be sold on the secondary market for cash, officers said.

Police noted that the type of theft is more unique, as when it comes to retail theft, authorities generally see thieves stealing higher-priced items such as razors or baby formula.

Anyone who recognizes this woman or has additional information on the case is asked to call Irvine police at 949-724-7011 or email njohnson@cityofirvine.org.