LAKEWOOD, Colo. (KDVR) Police in Colorado say a burglary crew is targeting Ulta Beauty stores across the metro area and has already stolen thousands of dollars in high-end fragrances.

Police want people to be aware because if the suspects are spotted, you can call the police and they will quickly respond.

“These products are starting at $400 each,” said John Romero, Lakewood Police public information officer. “When they walk in, they will ask the associate where this fragrance is and that’s when they will go in. Their MO is to ask that and take everything they can.”

There have been 18 thefts from area Ulta Beauty Stores since, 2023 totaling a loss of more than $28,000.

“This is a very sophisticated group of individuals,” said Romero. “They know exactly what they are looking for.”

Romero says the crimes happen at different times of the day and have occurred at multiple stores across the metro, from Lakewood to Broomfield.

“That’s the most concerning thing. It’s not just a Lakewood thing; this is a statewide even countrywide problem we’re seeing,” he said.

The stolen items often end up on places like Facebook Marketplace and eBay.

“Promoting these fragrances for much cheaper obviously than you would get from retail,” said Romero. “We want to remind people if you see this and it’s too good to be true, it more than likely is. You’re buying stolen items.”

He says often with large retail stores they have policies in place for employees to not interfere with shoplifters for their safety.

Romero said, “There’s not a lot of things the employees can do except report it to us afterward. That’s why we’re putting these individuals out. We’re asking for people to help identify them and tell us who they are. It doesn’t matter if you’re stealing one fragrance or thousands of dollars worth you still need to pay for that crime.”

If you recognize the people pictured you are. urged to call Lakewood police at 303-987-7111.