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A social media influencer’s alleged shoplifting attempt was exposed through her own online content, leading to her arrest in Florida.

Marlena Velez, 22, found herself in custody on November 21 after Cape Coral Police Department responded to a Target store’s complaint.

According to authorities, the incident occurred on October 30, when surveillance footage showed a woman manipulating the self-checkout system by scanning fake barcodes with lower prices instead of the actual item codes.

“Loss Prevention at Target stated that on October 30, 2024, an unknown female entered the store and selected items listed for sale,” the CCPD wrote on November 21. “Once at the self-checkout register, the female suspect did not scan the items’ barcodes, instead scanning a false barcode with cheaper prices.”

The stolen merchandise, including household items and clothing, amounted to $500.32. After police shared surveillance images on social media, an anonymous tip identified Velez, who boasts over 300,000 followers across platforms.

Investigators discovered Velez’s incriminating TikTok account, where she had documented her entire Target visit, wearing identical clothing and accessories seen in the security footage.

“Marlena documents herself picking out items inside the store and placing them in her car after exiting the store.”

The haul reportedly included a Stanley mug, cosmetics bag, and milk-and-cookies set, along with several shopping bags full of merchandise. These incriminating videos have since disappeared from her social media accounts.

Following her arrest, Velez was charged with petit theft and briefly held at Lee County Jail before being released on bond.

“She essentially incriminated herself,” CCPD spokesperson Riley Carter told the Express Tribune. “Social media gave us an unexpected lead, which expedited her identification and subsequent arrest.”