Airline Employees Accused of Stealing Designer Wristlet
Two employees of Spirit Airlines are facing criminal charges following an alleged theft of a passenger's designer bag at a US airport. The incident, which involved a Louis Vuitton wristlet valued at $505 (approximately £400), has led to arrests and internal disciplinary action.
The accused are identified as Olukunle Idowu, 49, a Spirit Airlines supervisor, and Hyacinth Linton, 56, another airline employee. Both have been charged with petit theft in connection with the event, which was first reported by the Miami Herald.
Surveillance Footage Captures Alleged Theft
The episode unfolded at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on 19 October. A passenger, preparing to board a Spirit Airlines flight to Austin, Texas, accidentally left her Louis Vuitton wristlet on the counter at the departure gate. The item was subsequently handed over to Spirit staff working at that location.
According to court records, surveillance video showed Idowu discovering the wristlet inside a drawer three days later. He is alleged to have taken possession of the bag and examined its contents. Idowu then reportedly moved to another gate, where he conducted a full inventory of the wristlet's contents.
Linton then joined him. Records state that she poured the contents onto the counter, but within seconds, Idowu scooped the items into a plastic bag as Linton placed the designer wristlet 'deep inside' her own backpack. Idowu is then said to have discarded the plastic bag in a rubbish bin.
Arrests, Pleas, and Airline Response
Hyacinth Linton was arrested on 13 November. She posted a $500 bond and is no longer in custody. She has been charged with petit theft for items valued under $40 and has not yet entered a plea.
Olukunle Idowu was arrested on 21 November and has pleaded not guilty to a charge of petit theft valued at more than $100 and less than $750. Jail records indicate he is no longer in police custody.
In a statement to the Miami Herald, Spirit Airlines confirmed it is aware of the charges. 'One employee has been suspended without pay, and the other is on a leave of absence,' the airline said. The carrier added that it is conducting a thorough investigation and will take further action as necessary. The statement also noted that Spirit conducts background checks on all employees consistent with applicable law.
The Independent has contacted the Broward Sheriff's Office and Spirit Airlines for further comment on the ongoing case.
