Two Women Accused of Shoplifting Spree Across Tamarac, Margate, Lauderdale Lakes, and Sunrise

by Ryan Yousefi October 21, 2026

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Phylicia Germinal and Viveca Nette Saunders {BSO}

Two Fort Lauderdale women are accused of stealing 55 items from stores in Tamarac, Margate, Lauderdale Lakes, and Sawgrass Mills.

According to a Broward County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, investigators detained Viveca Nette Saunders, 41, and Phylicia Germinal, 37, on October 19 after following them between stores across Broward County.

According to the report, the investigation began around 11:30 a.m. when an organized retail crime investigator for TJX Companies contacted a deputy about two suspected shoplifters at Marshalls, 4197 West Commercial Boulevard. The investigator said he had been building a case involving the women and reported that they had stolen from the Marshalls at 5461 West Atlantic Boulevard in Margate earlier that day.

After the alleged Tamarac theft, the investigator followed Saunders and Germinal to Burlington at 3333 North State Road 7. A Burlington asset protection investigator watched surveillance footage and reported another theft, according to the affidavit.

The women then traveled to Sawgrass Mills, entered Burlington, and visited several stores. Investigators reported watching additional thefts on surveillance cameras at TJ Maxx and Burlington.

A deputy waiting in the mall parking lot reported seeing Burlington clothing and footwear piled across the back seat of the women’s Toyota Camry. When Saunders and Germinal returned carrying several bags of merchandise, the deputy stopped their vehicle and detained them.

Officers took both women to BSO’s Tamarac district office, where they determined the pair stole 55 items worth $1,096.21 before sales tax.

Records show Saunders admitted using wire-cutting pliers to remove anti-theft security devices, while Germinal also admitted to the crimes and told investigators she intended to give the clothing to her son and other family members.

BSO transported both women to BSO’s Main Jail.

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Author Profile

Ryan Yousefi: Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiple outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.