A New York University (NYU) freshman, Aurora Agapov, has filed a lawsuit against her roommate, Kaitlyn Fung, alleging the theft of nearly $50,000 worth of jewelry and designer clothing. Agapov claims Fung stole items from luxury brands such as Chanel, Celine, Gucci, and Christian Louboutin and sold them on the online marketplace, The RealReal.
The Alleged Theft and Discovery
According to the complaint filed in New York Supreme Court, Agapov, 19, discovered that her prized possessions were missing on May 1. The art major from London found a receipt from The RealReal in a handbag, listing many of her items under Fung’s name. Agapov’s heart sank when she realized that Fung had opened an account with The RealReal in early 2024 and had been consigning her items throughout the 2023-24 school year.
Upon confronting Fung, Agapov claimed that her roommate admitted to the theft and sale of the luxury items. The lawsuit lists stolen items, including a Solange Azagury 18K Ruby Ring valued at $23,765, a Celine Nanno Tote worth $3,300, and a Chanel purse valued at $4,000. Additionally, some items had already been sold for significantly less than their market value, including a Chanel Strauss Bracelet sold for $175 (valued at $2,000) and a Bvlgari necklace sold for $2,485 (valued at $13,000).
The Aftermath: Legal Actions and Arrest
Following the discovery, Agapov reported Fung to the New York City Police on May 2, leading to Fung’s arrest. During her investigation, Agapov visited The RealReal store in New York, where she learned that Fung’s mother had instructed the store to send unsold items to her home in New Jersey. A spokesperson for The RealReal stated that the company is cooperating with local authorities and has provided all requested information.
The RealReal’s policy requires consignors to sign an agreement confirming they have the right to sell the items and that the items are not stolen. The company also collaborates closely with law enforcement on all inquiries regarding stolen or fraudulently obtained items. High-value items are uploaded to Leads Online, a database accessible to law enforcement agencies to help track stolen goods.
Seeking Justice: Demands and Legal Proceedings
As of May 31, Agapov has not received any of her unsold items. She is demanding the return of these items and is seeking at least $51,000 in damages. The complaint details the emotional significance of the stolen items, many of which were gifts from Agapov’s mother. “They mean a lot to me,” Agapov told the New York Post.
Court records show that a subpoena was served to Fung and her father on June 6. Meanwhile, Fung has not yet retained an attorney. Agapov, determined to see justice served, continues to pursue the return of her possessions and compensation for the emotional and financial loss she has suffered.