Monyea Bell, 29, of Chicago, is facing multiple theft charges in Lake County after police allege she participated in the theft of nearly $3,000 worth of merchandise from a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Merrillville.

According to court documents, the theft occurred on May 29, 2026, at the Dick’s Sporting Goods store in the 2600 block of East 79th Avenue. Police said two women entered the store, selected dozens of clothing items, and left without paying. Store surveillance allegedly captured the pair repeatedly returning to an Adidas display before exiting with the merchandise. An inventory determined that 40 clothing items, valued at $2,993.42, had been stolen.

Investigators said a store employee photographed the suspects’ vehicle, a gray Nissan Rogue displaying what appeared to be a temporary registration plate. During the investigation, police determined the displayed plate was allegedly fictitious after it could not be matched to any valid registration records. Additional license plate reader data reportedly linked the same vehicle and plate to other locations in the Chicago area.

According to court documents, investigators compared surveillance footage from the Merrillville theft with evidence from another retail theft investigation in Highland and concluded the same two women appeared to be involved. Police also reviewed additional retail theft reports from Illinois that allegedly showed the same suspects wearing the same clothing and distinctive hats.

Court records state investigators later identified Bell through surveillance images and other investigative methods. When contacted by phone, Bell allegedly denied owning the Nissan Rogue, denied being in the Merrillville area, and denied ever visiting the Dick’s Sporting Goods store.

Lodged in the Lake County Jail on July 17, 2026.

Court records further state Bell has a prior theft conviction from Cook County, Illinois.

Charges filed July 15, 2026:

Theft (Property Value Between $750 and $50,000) — Level 6 Felony

Theft (Prior Theft or Conversion Conviction) — Level 6 Felony

Theft — Class A Misdemeanor