Former Luxury Employee Arrested for Major Theft
A former employee of luxury fashion brands Christian Louboutin and Dior has been arrested in France for stealing approximately 1,400 pieces of leather goods and shoes valued at over €1.5 million. The 30-year-old woman, who worked as a coordinator in the Louboutin showroom in Paris, is accused of illegally reselling the stolen items in the United States. Following a tip-off from a suspicious Facebook page, the brands initiated an investigation that revealed the extent of the theft.
Investigation Uncovers Extensive Theft Scheme
The investigation began in the fall of 2023 when Louboutin officials noticed unauthorized listings of unreleased products on social media. A private investigator was hired, leading to the discovery that a distributor in the U.S. was selling these items. The former employee allegedly stole 719 pairs of shoes and 700 leather goods, exploiting her access to the showroom inventory. Additionally, authorities found €60,000 worth of Louboutin products and €85,000 worth of Dior products, prompting a broader investigation into both brands.
Legal Proceedings and Industry Impact
Despite the substantial evidence against her, including suspicious bank transactions totaling €400,000, the accused has denied all charges, claiming the items were obtained through private sales. The Public Prosecution has referred the case to trial, requesting pretrial detention, but the court has instead placed her under judicial supervision. This incident highlights a growing concern among luxury brands regarding security, leading to enhanced measures in showrooms and warehouses to prevent future thefts.
