Woman arrested after trying to steal almost $2K in cosmetics from a Target store in Irvine

Last week, 24-year-old Monalisa Cristina Barbu of Rowland Heights concealed over $1,700 in cosmetics in a baby stroller with the help of a minor at the Target on Jamboree, according to the Irvine Police Department.

Before you ask, there was no baby in the stroller. The police investigators believe a third adult suspect may have assisted them in their endeavors. She may be featured in our Felony Friday series soon.

Security made contact with the duo as they began to exit the store. Officers responded and arrested Barbu and the minor.

Barbu was booked at Orange County Jail for burglary, organized retail theft, conspiracy, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The minor was arrested, released to family, and may face burglary charges.

Editor’s Note: Barbu is a Romanian name. The Romani People in years past were called Gypsies but they now object to that name.

Art Pedroza Editor

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

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