A 38-year-old woman has pleaded guilty to orchestrating a retail theft operation that targeted multiple Ulta Beauty stores across metro Detroit, authorities announced.
Cheaira Broughton admitted on March 12 to conducting a criminal enterprise, a felony that carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
Organized “Push-Out” Theft Scheme
According to the Michigan Department of Attorney General, Broughton coordinated more than a dozen “push-out” thefts during October and November 2023. These incidents took place at Ulta Beauty locations in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.
In these thefts, small groups would enter stores, quickly collect high-value merchandise into baskets, and leave without paying, often fleeing to a waiting vehicle.
Stolen Goods Sold Online
Investigators said Broughton later resold the stolen items through online platforms, including Facebook Marketplace, turning the stolen merchandise into profit.
Multi-Agency Investigation
The case was built through a collaborative investigation involving the Michigan State Police, local law enforcement departments, and the FORCE Team — a specialized unit focused on organized retail crime.
The FORCE Team (Focused Organized Retail Crime Enforcement) was launched in 2023 and includes dedicated prosecutors, investigators, and state police detectives working together to dismantle theft networks.
Sentencing Scheduled
Broughton is scheduled to be sentenced on April 17 in Wayne County Circuit Court before Judge Wanda Evans.
Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized that targeting organizers behind such operations is key to reducing retail crime and protecting businesses.