TikTok influencer Marlena Velez, viral for Target shoplifting, arrested again in Florida

Velez arrested again after violating probation, fleeing police, and hiding during attempted traffic stop

Florida-based TikTok influencer Marlena Velez, 23, was arrested again on October 12 after allegedly attempting to evade law enforcement by hiding inside a parked vehicle, according to Cape Coral police. Velez, known for her lifestyle and fashion content under the handle @marlenavelezz, is facing two counts of probation violation and one count of fleeing and eluding law enforcement.

Officers located Velez after weeks of searching, tied to an incident from September 29 when she reportedly fled a traffic stop at high speed in a residential area. Authorities said an officer recognized her behind the wheel of a gray Kia Sorento, but discontinued the chase due to safety concerns. She was later found in the same vehicle — this time in the backseat, lying on the floor and attempting to hide.

Police confirmed her identity and active warrants, and Velez was taken into custody without bond. She remains at the Lee County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on October 27.

Velez’s legal troubles began nearly a year ago, when she was charged with petit theft after allegedly using fake barcodes to pay reduced prices for items at a Cape Coral Target. Police identified her through TikTok videos and security footage. In October 2024, she was caught stealing 16 items valued at around $500 and later arrested again for a similar offense involving $225 in merchandise.

 

 

 

 

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She pleaded no contest earlier this year and was sentenced to a 20-day work program, two years of probation, and banned from Target stores. Despite the charges, Velez continued posting to her account, which has amassed over 528,000 followers and nearly 12 million likes.

Her criminal record also includes a 2019 grand theft auto arrest at age 17 and a July 2023 Walmart shoplifting incident. As of Wednesday afternoon, she remained in custody on a $2,500 bond, according to jail records.