Boca Raton Retail Employee Accused of $11K Return Scam

Jessica Kaess, a 33-year-old manager at The Container Store in Boca Raton, has been charged with grand larceny and fraud after allegedly embezzling over $11,000 through a series of fraudulent merchandise returns.

 

According to court documents, between September 16, 2025, and January 27, 2026, Kaess processed numerous fake returns, crediting the refunds to 11 different debit cards in her name, totaling $11,198.

 

The store's loss prevention officer reported that Kaess conducted these transactions when no other employees were present at the register, actions captured on surveillance footage.

 

Upon confrontation, Kaess allegedly admitted to the scheme, providing receipts and a written confession, which were handed over to the police.

 

After being read her Miranda rights, Kaess confessed to the authorities.

 

She was arrested on January 28, 2026, and released after posting a $10,000 bond.

 

This incident is part of a broader trend of retail thefts in Boca Raton.

 

In November 2025, Tatyana Shavone Johnson was arrested twice for stealing from local stores, including a $700 theft from Dick's Sporting Goods and a $1,400 theft from Publix.

 

Similarly, in October 2025, a Neiman Marcus employee confessed to stealing nearly $2,000 in merchandise over several months.

 

These cases highlight the ongoing challenges retailers face in combating internal theft and fraud.

 

As Boca Raton continues to experience economic growth and an influx of new businesses, maintaining robust security measures remains crucial to protect both retailers and consumers.

 

Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities to help curb retail theft in the community.