2 Arrested Christmas Eve For Shoplifting, Child Endangerment: Cops

STOCKTON, CA — Law enforcement in Stockton arrested two women suspected of retail theft and placing children in harm's way on Christmas Eve, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies responded to a report of an "active theft" at the Sephora store in Lincoln Center and attempted to stop the suspects' vehicle in the parking lot. According to police, the vehicle failed to yield and led deputies on a pursuit through the busy lot.

The pursuit ended in the vicinity of Alturas and West Pearl avenues with help from the Stockton Police Department, the Sheriff's Office said.

Upon contacting the driver and passenger, deputies discovered three juveniles in the back seat.
"This reckless behavior demonstrated a complete disregard for community safety and the well-being of the underage individuals present," said the Sheriff's Office.

Deputies allegedly recovered approximately $595 worth of stolen items from Sephora with the suspects.

Stockton residents Dejah Thomas and Ajah Thomas were arrested and booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on suspicion of multiple charges including theft-related crimes, conspiracy to commit a crime, willful cruelty to a child, evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for safety, and violating probation.