Overview

Two individuals have been arrested in Glendale, California, for allegedly orchestrating a retail returns scam that resulted in significant financial losses for Nordstrom. The scheme reportedly spanned multiple years and involved the return of counterfeit goods in place of authentic designer items.

The investigation was initiated after a Nordstrom employee identified a suspicious return involving a high-end product, leading to further scrutiny by the retailer’s internal team and subsequent police involvement.

Key details

  • Suspects identified as Arpineh Sarkisian and Argin Gharapetian, both from Glendale.
  • The scam reportedly cost Nordstrom over $300,000.
  • Investigation began in February after a counterfeit return was flagged by a store employee.
  • Police were alerted by Nordstrom’s internal investigations team.
  • The suspects allegedly purchased authentic designer items online.
  • Counterfeit versions of these items were returned either in-store or through Nordstrom’s distribution system.
  • Items involved included YSL handbags valued at nearly $3,000 and Gucci shoes worth over $1,000.
  • Since 2019, the pair is accused of making over 224 purchases from Nordstrom, all of which were returned.
  • Confirmed losses tied to the investigation amount to approximately $50,000.
  • A search warrant executed at the suspects' home led to the recovery of numerous designer and counterfeit items, as well as packaging materials and store tags.
  • Evidence suggests that authentic goods were being resold online.
  • Sarkisian and Gharapetian face charges including felony grand theft and theft by false pretenses.

Context

This case highlights the ongoing issues of retail fraud and the impact it has on businesses, particularly in high-end retail sectors where counterfeit goods can easily be mistaken for authentic items.

What happens next

The suspects are scheduled to be arraigned on August 31, and the investigation is still ongoing, with authorities encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific charges filed against the suspects and any prior criminal history have not been confirmed.