Woman arrested concerning organized retail theft operation in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, other states after $30,000 in suspected stolen merchandise seized

The Cranston Police Department is currently investigating a multi-jurisdictional organized retail theft operation involving a Cranston woman accused of stealing merchandise from retail stores across multiple New England states.

Beginning in October 2025, a Cranston Police Detective initiated an investigation into 54-year-old Lisa Robertson after receiving credible information alleging her involvement in a large-scale retail theft scheme. The investigation was conducted in coordination with several law enforcement agencies in Massachusetts and in collaboration with retail loss prevention personnel.

On January 22, 2026, Cranston Police Detectives executed a search warrant at a residence on Atwood Avenue and recovered approximately $30,000 in suspected stolen merchandise from multiple retailers. Investigators also seized items commonly associated with organized retail theft, including a booster bag and devices used to remove security tags.

Loss prevention personnel from Victoria’s Secret assisted investigators and identified at least 107 items originating from 12 store locations across New England, with merchandise dating back as far as February 2025. Investigators estimate 227–250 pieces of clothing were recovered, valued between $10,000–$15,000.

An arrest warrant was obtained charging Robertson with Receiving Stolen Goods and related offenses. She turned herself in on January 28, 2026, was arraigned in Third District Court, and released on $5,000 personal recognizance bail. Her next court date is April 29, 2026.

This investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives work to determine the full scope of the operation and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Cranston Police Department.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.