Soe Ba Htoo

On July 12, 2025, officers were notified of a detained shoplifter at Macy’s, 1595 Highway 36 W, Roseville, Ramsey County, MN. When law enforcement arrived, they spoke with an Asset Protection employee (A. J. B.) who stated they observed an individual, later identified as SOE BA HTOO ([DOB redacted]), enter into Macy’s, select items of merchandise, and enter the fitting room. A. J. B. Stated they could smell burning plastic and hear sounds that were consistent with removing sensors. After the individual exited, a sweep of the fitting room was conducted, and there were no discarded items.

HTOO exited the store without paying for any items and was then stopped by Asset Protection. Prior to law enforcement arrival, Asset Protection conducted a search of HTOO and recovered a purple disposable lighter as well as sensors that were forcibly removed from clothing. The security sensors had visible black charring and were melted and distorted. Asset Protection confirmed the sensors had been affixed to the merchandise HTOO attempted to steal. Surveillance video was obtained from Macy's showing the incident as described by Asset Protection.

In a post‐Miranda interview, HTOO admitted to the theft at Macy's and admitted using a lighter to burn the anti‐theft security sensors off of merchandise. This case was referred to pre‐charge diversion, Justice Point was unable to make contact with HTOO.