News Summary
A 25-year-old woman from Costa Mesa was arrested for allegedly stealing over $1,000 in merchandise from a Whole Foods store in Irvine. Sabrina Fan was caught after community tips led authorities to her. The theft took place on July 27, where she only scanned a few items at self-checkout before leaving with numerous unpaid products. The Irvine Police Department emphasizes the importance of community vigilance in preventing such crimes.
IRVINE, California – A 25-year-old woman from Costa Mesa was arrested for allegedly stealing more than $1,000 in merchandise from a grocery store in Irvine. Sabrina Fan was taken into custody on August 7, 2025, following an investigation into the theft that took place on July 27 at a Whole Foods market on Irvine Center Drive.
According to reports from the Irvine Police Department, Fan entered the grocery store and began loading her shopping cart with various items, including supplements and probiotics. However, she reportedly scanned only a few items at the self-checkout before exiting the store with a significant amount of unpaid merchandise.
Authorities stated that tips from the public played a crucial role in identifying Fan as the suspect in the theft. Following the investigation, the police located her, leading to her arrest. The authorities are continuing to encourage anyone who may have additional information regarding the incident to come forward and contact the police.
Details of the Incident
The alleged theft occurred around midday on July 27 when Fan was seen browsing the aisles of the Whole Foods store. While she did scan some items at the self-checkout, her actions drew suspicion as she failed to pay for the majority of the products in her cart, which were collectively valued at over $1,000.
After leaving the store with the items, her actions did not go unnoticed, and the police received multiple tips that eventually led them to Fan. The Irvine Police Department has praised community involvement, as tips from residents were instrumental in bringing the alleged thief to justice.
Background of the Arrest
Fan’s arrest marks a significant outcome of collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the local community in addressing retail thefts. Grand theft is considered a serious offense, and prosecutions can result in substantial penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. Authorities have made it clear that such acts will not be tolerated and remind the public that engaging in theft has serious legal consequences.
Fans’ apprehension reflects ongoing challenges that retailers face with shoplifting, particularly during these economically challenging times. Stores have increased security measures, including surveillance systems and self-checkout monitoring, to deter theft and protect their merchandise from unlawful acquisition.
In the aftermath of the theft, police stated that they will be reviewing the security footage and further investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Additionally, they have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the businesses and residents of Irvine as they work to prevent similar crimes from occurring in the future.
Individuals with knowledge of the incident or who may have seen suspicious activity during that time are encouraged to reach out to the Irvine Police Department’s Investigator Voigt at the provided contact email, which is intended to assist with further investigation efforts.
This incident is a reminder of the crucial role that community vigilance plays in promoting safety and security within local neighborhoods, particularly as businesses continue to navigate the impacts of theft and its repercussions on the marketplace.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Woman Arrested for Stealing $1,000 in Dietary Supplements
Trader Joe’s to Open Second Location in Costa Mesa
Additional Resources
- KTLA News
- Google Search: theft in grocery stores
- Hindustan Times
- Wikipedia: Shoplifting
- ABC7 News
- Google News: retail theft
- Orange County Register
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theft
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
