Salem Police Arrest Two Women Involved In Major Retail Theft

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers took swift action on March 27, apprehending two women involved in a retail theft incident at the Willamette Town Center mall complex. The incident occurred at the Ulta Beauty Store at 831 Lancaster DR NE, where a woman entered the store with a shopping bag and allegedly took approximately $5,000 worth of merchandise before leaving without paying.

The suspect fled the scene in a car driven by another woman. However, thanks to witness information and a quick response by patrol officers, the two female suspects were located in the parking lot of the Target Stores across from the mall. Officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle, which led to the discovery of the stolen merchandise, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun.

The two suspects have been identified as Amber Dawn Alvarado, 37, and Taylor Paige Hunt, 29. They were both arrested and charged with theft in the first degree. Alvarado faces an additional charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

This incident highlights the important role that witnesses and law enforcement play in combating organized retail theft. The Salem Police Department urges anyone with information about this incident or other criminal activity to contact them immediately.