A couple featured on reality television show Real Housewives of Pretoria has been arrested in Florida, United States, following a six-month retail theft investigation, according to American digital news channel cbs12.com.
Cbs.12 reported that Melany (39) and her husband Peet Viljoen (57) were taken into custody on Tuesday during a traffic stop involving their black Range Rover in Boca Raton, the same vehicle investigators said was used during dozens of theft incidents.
Boca Raton police said the South African couple stole more than $5 300 (R88 000) worth of groceries from a Publix supermarket on South Federal Highway between August 2025 and March 2026.
According to arrest affidavits, the pair conducted 52 transactions in which they allegedly used “ticket-switching” tactics, scanning low-priced seasoning packets while bagging higher-priced merchandise or bypassing final points of sale altogether.
Surveillance video and transaction data documented 392 items that were not scanned, with 369 confirmed on CCTV footage. Items reported stolen included sparkling water, wine, soda, toilet paper, produce and other groceries.
Police documents state the couple repeatedly returned to the store even after the investigation began. In several incidents, officers said Peet Viljoen distracted employees while Melany allegedly carried out the thefts at the self-checkout.
Cbs.12 reported that during a post-Miranda interview, Peet denied ticket-switching or intentional theft, despite being shown surveillance images. Melany told detectives she acted alone and was stealing because she was in “survival mode” and unable to work in the United States due to not having a visa.
Investigators said the footage contradicted her statements and showed both participating in the scheme.
Controversial departure from South Africa
The couple relocated to the United States amidst multiple legal troubles and investigations in South Africa.
The Hawks has previously confirmed an investigation into the couple for fraud concerning their Tammy Taylor nail franchise operations. They faced allegations of fraud and racketeering related to the sale of Tammy Taylor franchises and were accused of selling franchises without authorisation from the US trademark owner.
In May 2025, a judge ordered them to cease using the Tammy Taylor trademark and to pay back significant amounts to complainants. A court ruled against them and their company, Tammy Taylor Global Franchising, ordering them to repay R600 000 and cease unauthorised franchise sales. The court found their contract with a prospective franchisee to be unconscionable, unjust and unreasonable under the Consumer Protection Act.
The CEO of the American nail brand Tammy Taylor Nails also accused the Viljoens of identity theft and illegally selling franchises and products in South Africa. Peet Viljoen also faced fraud and corruption charges related to property dealings.
After relocating to the United States, Peet made racist remarks on Instagram and indicated he had no intention of returning to South Africa, while also urging white South Africans to join him in the US.
