Adeel Shams, the founder and CEO of popular Los Angeles-based retailer CoolKicks, was arrested live on stream during a police raid at the company’s Santa Monica warehouse. The operation, carried out by the Los Angeles Police Department, resulted in the detention of four individuals, including Shams, and the seizure of a batch of Nike sneakers, which were allegedly stolen property.
The arrest unfolded in real-time as Shams was hosting an online auction on the platform Whatnot. Booking records confirm he was charged with a felony count of receiving known stolen property, a serious accusation that could carry significant penalties if convicted.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in the booming resale market, where high-demand items like Air Jordans can fetch thousands, attracting scrutiny over sourcing and legitimacy. As the investigation unfolds, CoolKicks’ reputation hangs in the balance, with fans and insiders awaiting clarity on whether this is an isolated mishap or symptomatic of deeper issues in the industry.