Nordstrom fraud – Misryoum reports Glendale police arrested two people accused of using counterfeit returns to steal refunds from Nordstrom.
A retail fraud scheme built on counterfeit “returns” has landed two Glendale residents behind bars, according to Misryoum.
Misryoum reports that a monthslong investigation followed alerts from staff at Nordstrom. beginning with suspicious return activity at a Glendale store.. Investigators say the case gained momentum earlier this year as employees flagged attempts to return items believed to be counterfeit. prompting both internal review and coordination with the Glendale Police Department.
In this context, the case highlights how organized theft can exploit store refund systems rather than stealing items outright.
According to Misryoum, investigators allege that the suspected operation was carried out beginning in 2019.. Authorities say the defendants allegedly purchased authentic high-end goods online and then returned counterfeit versions to seek refunds.. The alleged pattern involved designer items, including luxury brands, with investigators citing a wide range of merchandise in the case.
Misryoum reports that the investigation traced more than 244 transactions over several years. with detectives estimating the total attempted fraud far exceeded the losses already confirmed.. Authorities also say the total impact on retailers continues to be assessed as additional fraudulent returns are identified.
Meanwhile, cases like this matter because they can drive up costs for retailers and lead to tighter controls that affect everyday shoppers, even when wrongdoing is limited to a small group.
Misryoum says police executed a search warrant at a Glendale residence connected to the suspects on April 22.. Investigators report finding large quantities of designer goods. alongside counterfeit items. packaging materials. retail tags. and other items they describe as evidence of stolen property.. Authorities also allege they found indications that genuine merchandise may have been resold through online platforms.
Both suspects. identified by Misryoum as Arpineh Sarkisian and Argin Gharapetian. were arrested following the search. and they face multiple felony charges. including grand theft. receiving stolen property. and theft by false pretenses.. Misryoum reports they are scheduled to return to court for arraignment on Aug.. 31.
At a time when online purchasing makes it easier for fraudsters to source high-value goods, investigations like this underscore the importance of collaboration between retailers and local law enforcement.