The Westminster Police Department has released a picture of a male suspect who allegedly engaged in a distraction theft where he stole a victim’s debit card and then withdrew over $7,000 in cash.
The picture released by the police appears to have been taken by an ATM camera. It only depicts his face. In the picture he appears to have a 2 to 3 day beard growth, is wearing eyeglasses and is wearing a yellow baseball cap. His race is difficult to determine. His race is difficult to determine.
If anyone knows this subject please reach out to Detective Chavez at Cchavez@westminster-ca.gov or 714-548-3797.
Common Distraction Tactics
Physical Distraction:
- Bumping or Crowding: Thieves may push into a victim in a crowded area to pickpocket them.
- Spilling or Dropping Items: A perpetrator might spill a drink on the victim or drop something near them to catch their attention.
Conversational Distraction:
- Asking for Help: This can involve asking for directions, a ride, or assistance with groceries.
- Deceptive Offers: Thieves may offer a piece of jewelry as a gift or sell fake jewelry, sometimes swapping it for a real piece through sleight-of-hand.
- Feigning Distress: A perpetrator might appear to be in need of money or help, diverting the victim’s attention to their own situation.
- False Car Damage: A thief may claim to have found damage or something stuck to the victim’s car to get them to exit the vehicle.
Common Settings for Distraction Theft
- Retail Stores and Shopping Centers: Busy shops are ideal for thieves to “brush past” victims and blend into crowds.
- Parking Lots: Thieves may target victims as they load their groceries or are getting into their cars.
- ATMs: A person might distract a victim while they enter their PIN, allowing an accomplice to steal their card or use the information.
- Residential Areas: Organized groups may target homes and residents in residential neighborhoods.
How to Protect Yourself
- Maintain Situational Awareness: Pay attention to your surroundings and any strangers who approach you or make you uncomfortable.
- Be Wary of Strangers: Avoid engaging with strangers who approach you, especially those from a vehicle, and don’t accept help from them for tasks like carrying items.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep bags and purses close, never leave them unattended, and store valuables out of sight or where you can easily access them.
- Be Skeptical of Offers: Be suspicious of unsolicited offers of jewelry or gifts from strangers, as these can be part of a theft scheme.
The post The Westminster Police are searching for a distraction theft suspect who stole over $7K first appeared on New Santa Ana.