LAPD raided CoolKicks LA’s warehouse this week, and founder Adeel Shams was arrested during the chaos.
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The drama unfolded live on WhatNot when loud noises interrupted the stream. Shams abruptly ended the broadcast, mentioning it could be a swatting incident. Hours later, booking records confirmed he had been arrested.
CoolKicks started in 2014 at Virginia Commonwealth University before expanding to its famed Melrose storefront. It became a YouTube sensation with 1.95 million subscribers and appearances from celebrities and influencers. But as sneaker profits dipped, CoolKicks pivoted to streaming sales on WhatNot.
The LAPD’s BUNCO/FORGERY division booked Shams on October 2 for felony charges tied to financial fraud and counterfeits. He was released by midnight. Their WhatNot account has since been suspended, and images from the alleged raid have circulated on social media.
Reddit and Twitter users are today claiming they received fake merchandise, but none of these allegations have been officially proven. Shams is expected in court on October 23.
This marks another blow to a sneaker game already struggling with falling margins and shifting platforms. Stay locked for updates.
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