FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — Two women have been charged in connection with a series of retail thefts targeting local businesses in Fairview Heights over the past two months, authorities said this week.
The Fairview Heights Police Department, following coordinated investigations, identified Shamyia M. Seay, 30, and Jamya C. Newbern, 25, as suspects in multiple incidents involving theft of fragrances and other items from area retailers.
On December 8, 2025, the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office, led by State’s Attorney James Gomric, issued arrest warrants for both women. Seay faces charges related to four separate retail thefts and possession of a controlled substance, while Newbern is charged in connection with one theft.
Seay was charged with three counts of retail theft over $300 (Class 3 felony) in case 2025CF002101, and one count of retail theft over $300 along with unlawful possession of a controlled substance (Class 4 felony) in case 2025CF002106. Newbern was charged with one count of retail theft over $300 in case 2025CF002107.
The investigation began on Nov. 7, 2025, when officers responded to a reported retail theft at JD Sports involving two female suspects. Seay was identified as one of the suspects through the follow-up investigation. On Nov. 17, 2025, officers were notified of a theft at Ulta Beauty involving several thousand dollars’ worth of fragrances, with Seay again identified as the suspect. A delayed report on Nov. 21, 2025, from Kohl’s revealed another theft involving Seay.
On Dec. 7, 2025, Macy’s reported a theft of several thousand dollars in fragrances involving both Seay and Newbern. The suspects fled before officers arrived. Following the Macy’s theft, Officer Wulf initiated surveillance at Ulta Beauty and observed Seay inside the store approximately 30 minutes later. Seay was taken into custody without incident by Officers Wulf and Adkin.
During the arrest, officers discovered suspected cocaine in Seay’s possession and learned she had multiple extraditable arrest warrants. Sgt. Flinn located the vehicle used during the Macy’s theft parked outside Ulta Beauty; the driver was contacted and found not to be directly involved in the crimes beyond providing transportation.
Officer Hensley later identified Newbern as the second suspect from the Macy’s theft based on prior knowledge and interactions. Newbern has not yet been taken into custody.
The Fairview Heights Police Department commended its officers for their vigilance, teamwork, and thorough investigative work, noting their efforts ended a pattern of criminal activity affecting the local business community.
Fairview Heights officials emphasized their commitment to supporting local retailers and maintaining safety in the city. Police reminded that those who come to the city intending to steal will be identified, pursued, and held accountable.
All persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, as required by the Illinois Supreme Court.
