New Madison Avenue Store Burglarized Before It Opens

For a new business owner, being burglarized is no way to start off.

Just ask Renee Lavelle, who’s at 15301 Madison Avenue.

Her new “bling apparel” and accessories store was broken into on Memorial Day. 

After the window was smashed, a trail of blood led police to the suspect’s apartment next door. 

The woman, who was arrested and charged with burglary, was wearing a stolen Thirstee Rhinestone Bartender Shirt when officers came knocking, Lavelle said. 

“Thirstees had several hundreds of dollars in damages and stolen goods to clean up before next week’s grand opening,” she said. “I am thankful to Lakewood police for a job well done.”

This store — selling items ranging from bachelorette party wear, sports-mom gear, to dance, wine and cocktail T-shirts — is set to mark its grand opening next week.

Lavelle makes more than 90 percent of the items in the store.

The grand opening event is set from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 8; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 9; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 10.