Flash Mob Hits The Americana, Stealing $300K In Merchandise

GLENDALE, CA — A flash mob comprised of dozens of thieves hit the Yves Saint Laurent at The Americana at Brand Mall Tuesday, making off with $300,000 in merchandise, according to the Glendale Police Department.

The brazen daytime burglary, which was captured on video, prompted the mall's owner, Caruso to offer a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the thieves.

"The Yves Saint Laurent store in Glendale was the victim of a bold, flash mob burglary yesterday. Located at the Americana at Brand, at least 30 suspects flooded the store at approximately 4:50 pm Tuesday afternoon," the Glendale Police Department said in a written statement. "The suspects stole clothing and other merchandise before fleeing on foot and leaving the location in numerous vehicles. While still under investigation, the estimated loss is approximately $300,000."

According to police, patrol officers responded to the scene within two minutes after the mob rushed the store and overwhelmed staff. According to KTLA, an Amazon delivery driver tried to stop one of the thieves at the scene as a shopper filming the flash mob warned the driver it wasn't worth it to scuffle with the suspect. In the end, the person got away.

“This type of criminal activity will not be tolerated in Glendale. The Glendale Police Department will pursue all leads and utilize every available resource to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice," said Glendale Police Chief Chief Manny Cid. "Expect an elevated police presence in and around the downtown Glendale corridor. Our commitment to the safety of the residents, businesses, and visitors to Glendale is unwavering and our top priority. Our city remains strong and united against lawlessness and criminal activity threatening our safety and well-being.”

Caruso, the mall's owner reassured visitors about safety at the mall.

“At Caruso, we stand firm in our commitment to the security of our guests, tenants, residents and employees," the company said in a written statement. "Our company’s top priority is to maintain a safe and family-friendly environment across all of our properties, and we will not tolerate any criminal activity. We are offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators who committed the theft of Saint Laurent at The Americana at Brand on August 8th, 2023. If you have information, please reach out to the Glendale Police Department at (818) 548-4911 or Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477/lacrimestoppers.org."