Adeel Shams, founder of CoolKicks, arrested by LAPD during livestreamed sale; Know his company and networth

Adeel Shams, founder of the sneaker resale store CoolKicks, was arrested during a live-streamed sale on the WhatNot platform. The Los Angeles Police Department's BUNCO/Forgery Division, which investigates financial crimes including fraud and counterfeit goods, conducted the raid at CoolKicks' warehouse.

He was released by the early hours of October 3. A court appearance is scheduled for October 23 at the Los Angeles Superior Court.

While the LAPD has not publicly disclosed specific charges, the involvement of the BUNCO/Forgery Division suggests the investigation pertains to allegations of fraudulent activities or counterfeit merchandise. Eyewitness accounts and social media reports indicate that the raid disrupted a live sale, leading to speculation about the nature of the investigation.





Cool Kicks' first store opened in 2014 in Virginia. Adeel Shams then opened its most popular location in Melrose in Los Angeles, in 2016. The store has amassed a huge following on social media, where they frequently post videos of celebrities making huge purchases at the store.

Shams’ arrest arrives at a pivotal moment for CoolKicks, as the store is in the midst of revamping its business model. If convicted, Shams could face one of the most significant lawsuits in the history of the sneaker resale industry.

According to CEO Outlook Global website, Businessman Adeel Shams has an estimated net worth of around $9.5 million as of 2025. While CoolKicks remains his main source of income, Shams’ wealth is also supplemented by various other ventures.